Public planning forum to be held in West Gosford

The Central Coast Community Better Planning Group and Central Coast Friends of Democracy will be co-hosting a public planning forum at Gosford RSL in West Gosford on Saturday, October 23.

The forum will run from 8:30am to 3pm and will cost $20 per person.

Better Planning Group chair Mr Gary Chestnut said the two community organisations wanted residents to have more influence over how the Central Coast will be developed in the future.

"Since 2015, we have had a forced council amalgamation, the introduction of State Environmental Planning Policies and planning panels - all of which have taken decision-making about development on the Central Coast out of the community's hands," Mr Chestnut said.

"The Central Coast local government area has also spent almost half of its first five years as a regional council under NSW Government Administration which has further eroded the community's influence in decision-making.

"Until the Public Inquiry into the Council's financial status is concluded, we do not know when our democratic local government representation will be restored," he said.

Former Central Coast Council mayor and founder of Central Coast Friends of Democracy, Ms Jane Smith, said the community planning forum will be a "first step" towards giving the community a greater say in the region's future.

"This event will be an opportunity to listen to current decision-makers from Central Coast Council, local and state organisations and activists.

"It will also be a platform for you to share your concerns and ideas about planning and developments in your own neighbourhood and the whole region.

"At the moment we are voiceless.

"Decisions are being made behind closed doors and with the flick of a pen that have long-term consequences for the local environment, for the amenity of our villages and suburbs - for our beloved lifestyle.

Those wishing to attend the planning forum can register via https://www.ccfriendsofdemocracy.com/events

SOURCE:

Media release, 10 Sep 2021

Gary Chestnut, CC Better Planning Group