Council investigates business idea

Gosford Council has resolved to investigate the formation of a Peninsula Master Planning Committee with key stakeholders, business leaders and property owners to ensure the revitalisation of the three Peninsula town centres.

A notice of motion was put forward by Cr Jim Macfadyen at a council meeting on October 5.

The proposal comes after the Peninsula Chamber of Commerce called for council to form a special committee to secure the economic sustainability of Woy Woy, Umina and Ettalong town centres.

"It has come to my attention that the poor economic conditions prevailing particularly in the

Woy Woy CBD are such that urgent action by council would be prudent with the view to investigating ways that council, the Peninsula Chamber of Commerce, business leaders and property owners can stimulate economic activity," Cr Macfadyen said.

"The timing for such action is opportune especially as the draft Gosford LEP 2009 and accompanying development controls are being reviewed.

"These controls include specific planning and design recommendations for the Peninsula town centres of Woy Woy, Umina Beach and Ettalong Beach.

"It is noted that Chapter 4.2 - Peninsula Centres especially deals (in part) with the Umina Village Expansion Area - Structure Plan which resulted from consultation with the Peninsula Chamber of Commerce several years ago.

"Similar consultations should be held as part of the master planning process for the Woy Woy CBD.

"The Peninsula Master Planning Committee could consist of senior council technical staff, the Peninsula Chamber of Commerce, business leaders and key property owners with the view to working collaboratively with these groups.

"Its aim should be to address the strategic economic issues facing the Peninsula generally and, more specifically for the Woy Woy CBD, ways to stimulate activity and promote connections between Deepwater Plaza, the traditional town centre and the Woy Woy waterfront."

Cr Macfadyen said considerable focus had been set on Gosford CBD in recent times.

"It would be prudent of council to now direct planning and economic resources to the Peninsula such that the Peninsula town centres have similar growth opportunities to that of Gosford," Cr Macfadyen said.

Council agenda NM.19, 5 Oct 2010