Community members and business representatives are being sought to drive progress on key projects that will enhance Raymond Terrace, Heatherbrae and Medowie.
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The implementation panels are designed to keep Port Stephens Council on track to ensure it delivers on projects like street tree planting, new public toilets and a river walk as well as encouraging CBD renewal through private investment in projects like shop-top housing.
Two community members and two business representatives will be selected for each panel, when nominations open on Thursday.
The panels will meet quarterly and will be responsible for reviewing progress.
The council’s strategy and environment section manager Steven Peart said the most important requirement was that people had the desire to bring about change.
“Raymond Terrace and Heatherbrae has long been identified as a centre of strategic importance for the Hunter region,” Mr Peart said.
“Council adopted the Raymond Terrace and Heatherbrae Strategy in 2015 and while some actions have been implemented we’re now looking to establish a panel to ensure the community has oversight of what we’re trying to achieve.
“This includes a walking path along the Hunter River, encouraging shop-top housing within the town centre and identifying land for open space within the town centre.”
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Mr Peart said the projects were about enhancing community life.
“Equally, Medowie is an important town centre that council is keen to see flourish,” he said.
“We’ve identified that a new library facility is desired, while street tree planting, public amenities and town square improvements are key for this growing community.”
The implementation panels are considered an important tool for ensuring the actions identified in strategies are put into practice in a timely fashion and not left to stagnate.
“We don’t write strategies so that they can sit on a shelf,” Mr Peart said.
“Council wants to ensure the key actions identified for our town centres are implemented, and these panels are a great way to do just that.
“I would encourage any community member or business person who is passionate about their community to put up their hand and get involved.
“If you live or work in Medowie, Raymond Terrace or Heatherbrae, fill in the nomination form today.”
Nominations are open from Thursday, June 21 to Thursday July 12 and can be made by visiting haveyoursay.portstephens.nsw.gov.au and filling in a short survey.
For more information, contact William Oxley (Raymond Terrace & Heatherbrae) or Matthew Borsato (Medowie) on 4988 0255.