Central Coast Council’s first draft Local Strategic Planning Statement (LSPS), which will play a pivotal role in shaping the region’s future, is now on public exhibition for the community to have their say.

The LSPS explains how state and regional plans such as the Central Coast Regional Plan 2036 will be implemented in the Central Coast region.

The statement will focus on the vision and planning priorities for land use planning in the region over the next 20 years.  Together with Council’s Community Strategic Plan (CSP) the document will identify the long-term social, environmental and economic aspirations of the community and provide a clear direction for growth that will inform future strategic plans and planning instruments.

Council Director Environment and Planning, Scott Cox said a well-considered and consistent approach to planning is required to ensure that future forecast population growth is provided for and managed in a sustainable manner. 

“The land use vision, planning priorities and 82 short, medium and long term actions outlined in the LSPS will guide Council’s future strategies, plans and policies and sets in place actions to be included in upcoming Delivery Programs and Operational Plans,” Mr Cox said.

“This strategic vision aims to create the Central Coast of tomorrow - showing leadership in place-making, environmental protection, sustainability, infrastructure and community resilience. A region where our town centres will thrive with more living and working opportunities and provide key services to surrounding communities. Importantly, a region with physically connected communities through appropriate infrastructure and socially connected through strong relationships and a sense of unity.”

Due to the limitations imposed by the Coronavirus Pandemic, Council will be undertaking community consultation from 8 May to 8 June through online methods. These will include a series of video forums for each ward with opportunities to participate and provide feedback on the draft LSPS document.

Mayor Lisa Matthews said the Local Strategic Planning Statement will provide an important long-term framework for growing the Central Coast Region in a manner that preserves its natural attributes and improves our quality of life.

“Our community’s opinion is highly valued, and the draft Local Strategic Planning Statement has been guided by the extensive community consultation undertaken for the preparation of the Community Strategic Plan 2018 and draft Urban Spatial Plan,” Mayor Matthews said.

“I encourage the community to take this opportunity to now have their say on the Draft LSPS.”

Have your say online at yourvoiceourcoast.com/lsps. Submissions close on 8 June.