The LSPS is a requirement of the NSW Government and sets out the 20-year vision for land use in the Cessnock LGA; the special characteristics which constitute Cessnock's local identity; shared community values to be maintained and enhanced; and how growth and change will be managed in the future.

Cessnock's LSPS is separated into four themes: liveable, productive, sustainable and unique. These themes summarise the areas of focus for land use planning in Cessnock to 2036.

Now that it has been adopted, the LSPS will replace the City Wide Settlement Strategy 2010 which was the primary document guiding land use planning and growth across the region.

For Cessnock, the LSPS will assist in the implementation of actions set out in the Hunter Regional Plan (HRP), Greater Newcastle Metropolitan Plan (GNMP) and Council's own priorities as set out in the Cessnock Community Strategic Plan (CSP).

Mayor Bob Pynsent wanted to thank everyone who either attended council's drop-in sessions for the LSPS or made a submission while it was on public exhibition.

"The LSPS focuses on our diverse cultural history, our distinctive towns and villages, emphasises the importance of local values, along with the contribution we make to the broader Hunter region," Cr Pynsent said.

"This was a great opportunity for the community to give input into what local land use planning will look like for the next 20 years. We had 225 people attend our drop in sessions across the LGA and we received 142 written submissions. We were very pleased with the broad response and all submissions were considered before the final document was prepare."

Council will write to each person who made a submission to advise them of Council's decision and thank them for their input.