Central Coast Council is ready to once again welcome visitors to the region when regional travel restrictions are eased from 1 June 2020.

Council Director Connected Communities, Julie Vaughan said Council is rolling out a staged approach to the reopening of eligible facilities to ensure the safety of community members and visitors.

“We look forward to welcoming visitors back to our beautiful region from 1 June,” Ms Vaughan said.

“From our stunning beaches to our picturesque bush and rural settings to our diverse town centres, the Coast is hard to beat as a travel destination.

“If you’re planning a trip, please book accommodation well in advance and follow physical distancing requirements at all times during your stay.

“Some of our eligible facilities have already reopened, including Gosford Pool, play spaces, outdoor fitness equipment and skateparks.

“From 1 June we will start to reopen additional eligible facilities but please note that each facility is different and the timing and nature of reopening will vary from venue to venue as we ensure public safety can be met in accordance with the regulations.

“We are committed to the continued growth of the Central Coast as a tourism destination of choice – we work closely with our industry partners like Destination NSW and in the coming weeks we will be launching a new destination brand campaign.”

Mayor Lisa Matthews said the new easing of restrictions would provide a welcome economic boost to the Central Coast.

“Like many regions across NSW, the Coast relies heavily on tourism and we are thrilled that the management of COVID-19 has reached a point where travel restrictions can be eased,” Mayor Matthews said.

“COVID-19 came hot on the heels of major floods and bushfires and it will be wonderful to once again see smiling visitors enjoying the beautiful Central Coast.

“We ask that our visitors remember to always follow physical distancing requirements and to be aware that some venues will remain closed or have strict requirements in place.”

Council thanks the Central Coast community, and any visitors from 1 June 2020, for taking the COVID-19 situation seriously and asks that everyone continue to follow State and Federal Government directions including:

• practise physical distancing, which includes maintaining a distance of 1.5metres from others at all times.
• public gatherings must not be more than 10 people
• continue to practise good hygiene, including washing your hands before and after using any equipment.

For further information about COVID-19 related closures and re-openings, please visit centralcoast.nsw.gov.au/COVID-19.