Residents to 'help shape' walking-cycling strategy

Central Coast Council will hold a "drop-in session" at the Peninsula Community Centre on Tuesday, December 2, for residents to "help shape a new Walking and Cycling Strategy".

The Council has announced that its Bike Plan and Pedestrian Access and Mobility Plan, adopted in 2019, are now being reviewed and merged into a single, comprehensive Walking and Cycling Strategy.

The new strategy aims to "reflect the evolving needs of the community and incorporate current guidelines from Transport for NSW while aligning with the TfNSW's Strategic Regional Integrated Transport Plan and the plans of neighbouring Local Government Councils".

As well as the drop-in session, residents may provide feedback via the Council's Your Voice Our Coast website, by answering a questionnaire or "dropping a pin" on a map.

There is no indication of the specific content of the new strategy, other than colouring on the map.

"Yellow shaded areas highlight priority areas identified in the proposed Walking and Cycling Strategy which are within 400 metres of attractors-tourist destinations, hospitals, shops and commercial zones or 200m from schools.

"Purple shaded areas represent shops and commercial zones.

"Red circle dots indicate the location of schools.

"Pins marked with 'H' show Hospitals."

The publicly-available information does not state what factors, many of which have changed since 2019, will be taken into account by council staff.

For example, in July, the council adopted a 10-year Community Strategic Plan with a "key enabling project" that estimated "Woy Woy's additional dwelling capacity at approximately 11,500 dwellings with appropriate infrastructure development", a 60 per cent increase on current numbers, with consequent anticipated increases in traffic and on-street parking.

In this context, the Council has stated: "Infrastructure upgrades are needed across all key growth areas to support future housing and employment growth."

Last year and early this year, the State Government introduced planning changes which allow higher density development within 1.25km of Woy Woy, and elsewhere on the Peninsula.

Changes to Council's own planning provisions in 2022 have allowed increased density and less opportunity to park cars off the street.

While all these are mentioned elsewhere on the council website, they are not mentioned in the context of this consultation.

Another factor not mentioned is the changed working and commuting patterns that have emerged following the pandemic.

Council infrastructure director Mr Boris Bolgoff said that the goal of the new strategy was to better connect the region's beaches, towns, schools and destinations with infrastructure that's safe, accessible and welcoming for people of all ages and abilities.

"We've listened to feedback from previous consultations and are now prioritising better access to key destinations, stronger walking and cycling and connections and improved infrastructure around town centres, schools and public transport," he said.

"The strategy builds on Council's 2019 plans, which laid the foundation for promoting active transport across the Central Coast.

"Since then, Council has expanded its shared pathway network and footpath program significantly, unlocking funding through NSW Government grants and developer contributions."

"This strategy will help us deliver infrastructure that supports people of all ages and abilities."

Mayor Cr Lawrie McKinna said: "Walking and cycling are part of everyday life on the Coast.

"Whether you walk to the shops, cycle to work, or push a pram around your neighbourhood, we want to hear what would make it safer and easier for you."

He said community feedback was essential to ensure the Walking and Cycling Strategy reflects local needs.

The public consultation period runs from October 28 to December 23.

SOURCE:

Media release, 30 Oct 2025

Boris Bolgoff, Central Coast Council

John Wood bows out as Diggers' chairman

Ettalong Diggers Club chairman Mr John Wood has chosen to retire from the board due to health reasons.

Vice-chair Ms Judy Gribble was elected the Club's new chairperson at the annual general meeting held on Sunday, October 26.

Chief executive Mr Colin Murphy acknowledged the impact of John's leadership, saying: "John has been a steady and respected leader of our board.

"His contribution to the Club and to our local community has been outstanding.

"John has served the Club and its members with great commitment and integrity over many years, guiding the organisation through significant periods of renewal, growth and community support.

"The board and staff thank him sincerely for his dedication, wisdom and friendship and we wish him continued strength and good health."

Mr Murphy said: "Ettalong Diggers is in a solid position and will continue to build on the foundation laid under John's leadership."

In her first message as chairperson, Ms Gribble expressed her gratitude to John and outlined her vision for the year ahead.

A special recognition of John's service to Ettalong Diggers will be made in the coming months.

SOURCE:

Social media, 28 Oct 2025

Col Murphy, Ettalong Diggers