The Cessnock, Kurri Kurri and Maitland growth corridor is an opportunity for councils to work together to realise a regional vision, Cessnock Mayor Bob Pynsent says.
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Cr Pynsent outlined Cessnock City Council’s response to the sate government’s Hunter Regional Plan 2036 at an Urban Development Institute of Australia NSW Hunter branch meeting in Newcastle on Thursday.
Lake Macquarie Mayor Kay Fraser and Newcastle councillor Declan Clausen also addressed the meeting.
Cr Pynsent said delivering jobs and economic growth was at the forefront of his council’s mind.
“The Maitland to Kurri Kurri strategic corridor provides a great opportunity to work collaboratively with our neighbour, Maitland City Council,” he said.
“Cross border planning has already commenced for this corridor, which has the potential to deliver considerable housing, jobs and economic development not only for the Cessnock LGA but also for the Newcastle metropolitan area and the greater Hunter Region.
“The planning and delivery of regional and local infrastructure and services is vital if we are to see the goals of the regional Hunter plan achieved.
“The timing and prioritisation of infrastructure is critical if we are to ensure that areas we have planned for actually deliver the houses and jobs intended.”
The state government finalised the Hunter Regional Plan 2036 last year.
According to the NSW Department of Planning website, the plan aims to make the Hunter “a leading regional economy in Australia, with a vibrant metropolitan city at the heart”.
The plan’s other goals include “a biodiversity-rich natural environment, thriving communities, greater housing choice and jobs”.
It identifies the Maitland and Cessnock areas as strategic hubs.
“It’s important councils engage with key stakeholders to reach better outcomes for our communities,” Cr Pynsent told the UDIA meeting.
“This is the way the regional plan will be delivered – by working together across boundaries.”
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