Vision for a vibrant and resilient North Coast

The North Coast will become a stronger, more resilient region under the NSW Government’s updated 20-year vision for the region.

The Department’s Executive Director of Local and Regional Panning Malcolm McDonald is inviting community feedback on the draft North Coast Regional Plan 2041, which will guide planning, land-use decisions, and growth.

“This draft plan will help build a more resilient region to shield communities against natural disasters, protect its spectacular coastline and natural environment, unlock homes, boost tourism, and safeguard Aboriginal land,” Mr McDonald said.

“While our short-term focus is on supporting communities recover from recent floods, our long-term vision recognises the need for a steady supply of housing moving forward, with forecasted demand showing at least 41,300 new homes by 2041.”

To achieve greater housing diversity, the plan aims to ensure 40 per cent of new homes are small lower maintenance apartments, villas and townhouses, supported by infrastructure.

Mr McDonald said the draft plan has a strong focus on strengthening resilience.

“This region’s been battered from flooding, fires and the pandemic and our plan focuses on growing the North Coast into a vibrant and strong region,” he said.

“It builds on the Government’s efforts to help communities rebuild through funding, accommodation, changes to planning rules and the establishment of the Northern Rivers Reconstruction Corporation that is coordinating the planning, rebuilding and construction of essential services, infrastructure and housing."

“The plan includes actions requiring councils to update their hazard management plans and direct future development to the right areas.”

The blueprint also looks to take advantage of the 2032 Brisbane Olympics with improved connections to South East Queensland to attract tourists and boost the regional economy, while championing the self-determination of Aboriginal people.

The community is invited to register for one of our online workshops:

• Northern Rivers workshop: Thursday 28 July 2022, 6:00pm-7:30pm
• Mid North Coast workshop: Thursday 4 August 2022, 6:00pm-7:30pm
• Entire region workshop: Thursday 11 August 2022, 6:00pm-7:30pm.