Better than increasing Peninsula housing density?
While the possibility of increasing medium and high density housing on the Peninsula is canvassed in Central Coast Council's housing strategy discussion paper, it is not the only option.
The accompanying Existing Conditions Report says: "Most capacity is located within and near existing centres where appropriately zoned, although the presence of strata and more recent development provides limitations.
"In the current market, take-up of land that is zoned for shop top housing and residential flat buildings is experiencing relatively low levels of take-up.
"Consequently, while there is available capacity, it does not mean it will necessarily be taken up in the market."
In the case of the Peninsula, it estimated a "theoretical capacity" of 11,577 homes, but predicted take-up of between 1663 and 2352.
The report says there may be better options: "Districts with the largest populations are Peninsula and Coastal.
"Notably, these locations are not near the major centres of employment or service delivery of Gosford, Tuggerah, Wyong and Erina, requiring populations to travel to access work and services.
"Opportunities to deliver housing closer to jobs and services is likely to offer benefits for future residents and the Local Government Area in general.
"This could include more housing within Gosford as the regional centre."
The report also noted: "Council previously amended the controls on the Peninsula to promote density and amalgamation.
"However, with the introduction of the Low Rise Medium Density Housing Code saw development revert to multi-dwelling and dual occupancies on existing lots."
SOURCE:
Website, 1 Feb 2022
Draft Local Housing Strategy, Central Coast Council