The Central Coast Peak Bodies Alliance has welcomed the NSW Government’s continued focus on revitalising the Gosford waterfront but expressed disappointment at the lack of commercial activation opportunities in the current plans, announced recently.
The Government has announced a shared pathway from Point Clare as the first step in the revitalisation of the waterfront precinct.
But the Alliance says while the proposal to enhance public space and connectivity is positive, it believes the real priority must be creating a vibrant, connected precinct that supports the region’s growing population and visitor economy.
The Alliance comprises Business NSW, Regional Development Australia Central Coast, Central Coast Industry Connect, the Urban Development Institute of Australia, the Property Council of Australia, the Housing Industry Association, and the Central Coast Leadership Forum.
Regional Director of Business NSW Scott Goold said the Gosford Waterfront needed to be a destination, not just a thoroughfare.
“Food, beverage, and entertainment facilities must be part of the plan to create an attractive space for both locals and visitors,” he said.
“These elements are essential to the economic and cultural vibrancy of the precinct.”
The Alliance acknowledges the Government’s interest in cycling connectivity but argues that pedestrian access between the Gosford CBD and the waterfront should take priority.
With more than 5,000 new residents expected in Gosford CBD in the coming years, ensuring easy access to the waterfront is vital for community wellbeing, local business support, and urban activation, it says.
Gail Cottrill, Chair of Regional Development Australia Central Coast, said for Gosford to thrive as a true city centre, it needed seamless pedestrian connectivity between the CBD and the waterfront.
“This is critical if we want to create a liveable, accessible city for our rapidly growing community,” she said.
The Alliance says the Government has referenced market sounding and feasibility studies but provided little detail.
It calls for the release of insights from developers about their views on timelines and the potential for residential, mixed-use, and arts and cultural facilities along the waterfront.
CEO of UDIA NSW Stuart Ayres said there was immediate appetite for mixed-use and cultural activation near the water.
“We also know that market conditions will evolve and there will be interest to investigate transformative future development opportunities around the waterfront,” he said.
“We need those options to remain on the table.”
Director of the Property Council of Australia (Hunter Central Coast), Nuatali Nelmes, said the waterfront project must be underpinned by a long-term vision that blended public and private investment.
“Providing clarity on government planning, and infrastructure delivery timing will help build confidence for future investment in an exciting growth area for the region,” Nelmes said.
The Alliance has urged the Government to ensure that the waterfront vision reflects the aspirations of a dynamic regional city, incorporating commercial, cultural, and recreational spaces that will serve residents, businesses, and visitors for decades to come.
Alliance members have come together with a shared commitment to unlocking the region’s full potential through advocating for targeted infrastructure investment and economic development.
I absolutely agree. A shared pathway should be delayed until the Gosford waterfront is developed. That should be the priority. Likewise, there needs to be better access to the waterfront from the Gosford CBD. Perhaps a wide pedestrian overpass, over the Central Coast Highway. Currently the waterfront feels cramped and the traffic (plus the lack of things to do there) makes it less attractive.
I hope for the best outcome but I feel Gosford lacks economic support from the community, The demographic struggles to support Gosford in its current commercial form. ” Build it and they will come” may not cut it for investors. Possibly why the State and Federal governments are slow in support
what about upgrading Henry Parry Dr. and closing off the section of the waterfront Rd from the roundabout to the pool. Allowing businesses to grow in that entire area . a bit like Darling Harbour.