Planning ahead for the Gloucester community
Published on 28 August 2019
Gloucester locals are encouraged to get involved in planning for their future, as stage one of a community-led planning process gets underway.
Local people are the experts when it comes to their own communities, which is why local planning at a grass-roots level is so effective. To help kick-start the process, MidCoast Council is inviting Gloucester locals to come together at a think tank session, to explore what’s important for the future of their community.
“This first stage of the community planning process for Gloucester is vitally important, to capture the needs and desires of as many local people as possible”, explained Paul De Szell, MidCoast Council’s Director of Liveable Communities.
“It is the first step in developing a road map for Gloucester’s future, which will outline and prioritise projects that are important to the local community, and what’s needed to get there”.
The think tank sessions will explore what makes Gloucester unique, and the elements that contribute to its appeal as a place to live, work and visit. Known as the gateway to Barrington Tops, the township is surrounded by natural beauty and its charming streetscapes reflect a rich heritage. Gloucester’s friendly CBD and public spaces, its local businesses and events, are all underpinned by a strong community spirit.
The Gloucester Community Plan will ultimately be owned and driven by the local community, with support and guidance provided by council throughout the process. Once in place, community plans not only assist in identifying local priorities, but can support funding applications for specific projects.
During this first phase, Gloucester locals are encouraged to come along and share their ideas at a family-friendly think tank session. Two sessions will be held at Gloucester Council Chambers on Tuesday 24 September. The daytime session will run from 10am – 12pm, and an evening session from 6pm – 8pm on Tuesday.
For those who can’t make it, a short survey is available to complete online at www.midcoast.nsw.gov.au/LCP and hard copies are available at Council’s customer service centre in Gloucester, or at Gloucester library. The feedback phase closes on Friday 27 September.
For more information about the development of the Gloucester Community Plan, visit www.midcoast.nsw.gov.au/LCP where information will be provided about next steps and how to stay involved.
Local Community planning is part of MidCoast Council’s commitment to supporting communities to retain and celebrate their unique identities. The process is also being undertaken in Wingham, with think tank sessions planned for 16 and 17 September.