As the end of 2022 approaches, I’d like to reflect on the year that has been. The last 12 months have seen enormous transition for Central Coast Council and the Central Coast community.

Together we have persevered through one of the most significant financial turnarounds in Australian local government history. While not unscathed, the organisation and community have shown immense resilience and today, we find ourselves in a stronger position as a result. 

Some 2022 highlights include:

• All financial recovery plan milestones met. In October 2022, Council reported its total debt had fallen lower than the combined debt of the two former Councils when they merged in 2016. Council is now financially stable and on-track for a sustainable future.
• Consolidated planning controls for the Central Coast. Council reached this significant milestone with the consolidated Central Coast Local Environment Plan and Central Coast Development Control Plan finalised and in effect from 1 August 2022. The harmonisation of the former Gosford and Wyong Shire Councils’ planning controls created uniformity, consistency and a pathway toward a smoother process for development applications and assessment.  
• Central Coast achieved ECO Destination Certification by Ecotourism Australia. We were one of the first regions in the country to be recognised for our strong commitment to sustainable practices and high-quality, nature-based tourism experiences.
• New and improved community facilities. Council delivered new sports amenities buildings, upgraded and constructed playspaces, improved accessibility with new pathways, removed tonnes of waste from gross pollutant traps and debris from beaches, undertook roadside vegetation and filled many thousands of potholes, and more, throughout a year of intense rainfall events.

Council is focussed on consolidating and improving its performance to better serve you, the Central Coast community, in 2023 and beyond.

Rik Hart, Administrator