Central Coast Council has developed the region’s first overarching Economic Development Strategy and Recovery and Resilience Framework which are currently on public exhibition for the community to submit feedback.

The Central Coast economy has been hit hard by floods, bushfire and COVID-19 and Council is committed to facilitating a quick recovery and laying the foundations for sustainable growth and future resilience.

Council Unit Manager Economic Development and Project Delivery, Jamie Barclay said the Economic Development Strategy aims to strengthen and future-proof the local economy.

“This Strategy is focussed on initiatives that will provide the greatest tangible benefits to our economy and our community by harnessing the region’s strengths and taking full advantage of the identified opportunities,” Mr Barclay said.

“We have identified how our region can grow and develop though targeted investment, improved partnerships and promotion of our region as a desirable place to do business and visit as one destination. Throughout this time Council will continue to engage with the local community, collaborate with businesses and advocate to state and local governments, ensuring the best outcomes for the Central Coast.

“The Economic Development Strategy is a big-picture plan that identifies broad objectives and actions over 20-years but we know that there is a need for continued and immediate action to combat the impact of COVID-19.

“An Economic Recovery and Resilience Framework has also been prepared to address the impacts of COVID-19 and bring forward key action items to support the local economy.”

Mayor Lisa Matthews said the Central Coast community has band together in the face of unprecedented challenges and will emerge stronger than ever.

“Our community has experienced everything nature has had to offer in recent months and we have developed specific responses to these situations by drawing on our region’s strengths and capitalising on the many opportunities in front of us,” Mayor Matthews said.

“These plans are designed to ensure our local economy bounces back quickly in the short-term, fulfills its potential in the long-term, and is resilient enough to handle difficult times when they do hit.”

The draft Economic Development Strategy and Resilience Framework will be available online until 20 July 2020. Council invites the community to share their priorities for the Coast’s economy by visiting yourvoiceourcoast.com