Tesch wants ideas for shared public spaces

Member for Gosford Ms Liesl Tesch is wanting ideas to transform local streets into shared public spaces.

Ms Tesch said a new $15M Streets as Shared Spaces fund would help councils implement pilot measures to increase public space and allow for easier social distancing during the Covid-19 pandemic.

"So many locals have given up the commute to Sydney and fallen in love with their neighbourhoods and public spaces again as we adjust to this new life with social distancing and self-isolation," Ms Tesch said.

"It's made us realise just how lucky we are to have the environment and lifestyle we have.

"The Peninsula with its flat terrain, cycle-paths, and local shops, is the perfect trial area for new public space programs.

"There are so many small things that can be done to make our community healthier, encourage walking and make it easier to maintain social-distancing - such as widening footpaths or closing a street to vehicles on weekends."

Ms Tesch is asking residents to send in their ideas for what could be done to encourage better use of public spaces.

"Getting the views and ideas of the community is important so Central Coast Council knows what changes people want to see and will use," she said.

"I'd encourage everyone in the community to think creatively about what small changes we can make that will make the Peninsula an even better place to live and move around."

Ms Tesch said: "I love that this program will not only encourage healthier lifestyles, but will make our town centres more colourful and dynamic, supporting our local small businesses to get back on their feet after the Covid-19 downturn," she said.

"We have all had to stay away from our favourite coffee shop, or lunch spot, but this funding program will bring back the life to our high streets."

Councils will be able to apply for grants of up to $100,000 for short-term, quick response projects, such as widening footpaths and temporary cycle lanes, and up to $1M for longer-term projects, such as changes to road alignments and widths and trialling lower speed limits.

Ms Tesch said residents could email their ideas to her at Gosford@parliament.nsw.gov.au and these will be sent as a submission to Central Coast Council.

SOURCE

Media release, 14 May 2020

Liesl Tesch, Member for Gosford