Central Coast Council is to adopt a ward-based approach to strategic planning for the region over the next 20 years, following a successful motion from Deputy Mayor, Jane Smith, at its October 8 meeting.
The move will see the Local Strategic Planning Statement (LSPS) prepared in close consultation with the community, avoiding “one size fits all” solutions. “I was pleased to put forward a motion that ensures councillors are closely involved in talking to their community about the 20-year vision for their area, ” Clr Smith said.
She said the LSPS would set out a vision for land-use, the special character and values that are to be preserved and how change will be managed into the future. “Planning is one of the critically important things that councils do, ” she said.
“It determines where we have residential development, jobs and commercial activity, how we protect local character, provide social amenity, environmental protection, protection of our water supply, provide infrastructure – and how we accommodate a growing population. ”
Council’s Chief Executive Officer is to develop an outline for community engagement for each ward in consultation with ward councillors.
There will also be a regular monthly workshop to provide interested councillors with information and updates on planning matters, including development proposals.
“We are a large region, with diversity in landscape and communities, ” Clr Smith said.
“Many areas are diverse and their future land use needs and our 20 year vision should reflect that diversity. “It is not one size fits all.
“As councillors, we have a responsibility to engage with residents in our ward on such important matters as the 20- year vision. “Planning should be about people, place and communities, protecting the things that we love while planning for the future.
“I look forward to working with our communities to make sure that we plan for liveable places. ” Council needs to develop the LSPS by July 1, 2020.
Source: Agenda item 7.2 Central Coast Council meeting, Oct 8 Central Coast Council Watch Media release, Oct 11 Deputy Mayor, Jane Smith