First plans to revitalise Gosford City Centre released on Exhibition
Gosford City Centre will become a significant hub with improved commercial, retail and cultural life, according to recommendations released by Minister for Planning and Housing, Anthony Roberts.
“The first recommendations for the complete revitalisation of the centre of the Central Coast’s capital city are focussed on its beating heart – Kibble Park and surrounds,” Mr Roberts said in Gosford on 9 April.
The bold plan for Gosford is articulated in the first of a series of Government Architect recommendations for the revitalisation of the city’s centre, on public exhibition until 18 June.
“As the civic heart of Gosford City Centre, it is entirely appropriate that our first focus is on Kibble Park,” Mr Roberts said.
“Enhancing Kibble Park is critical to improving the city’s connectivity and drawing people back into a desirable, attractive and functional city centre.”
Two reports will be released in coming weeks to focus on complementing the corridor between Gosford Hospital to the train station in the north and the Waterfront precinct in the south.
Mr Roberts also released a background paper describing the considerable work on the Urban Design and Implementation Framework (UDIF) and providing historical context regarding the planning initiatives that have shaped Gosford City Centre.
“I am confident that the efforts and plans of the NSW Government will enhance Gosford, making it a most desirable place to live, work and visit,” Mr Roberts said.
The NSW Government Architect, Peter Poulet, said: “It is crucial that the first stage of the project to revitalise Gosford City Centre concentrates on the very heart of the region’s capital.
Mr Roberts also announced the appointment of Michael Cassel as CEO of the Central Coast Regional Development Corporation (CCRDC) will support delivery of Gosford City Centre’s renewal.
The Department of Planning and Environment is coordinating the delivery of the UDIF to revitalise Gosford City Centre, the CCRDC has been tasked by the NSW Government to identify development opportunities to drive economic growth in the region.
In addition to taking the reins of the CCRDC, Mr Cassel will continue in his current role as CEO of Hunter Development Corporation, where he has been instrumental in leading change and transforming Newcastle into a vibrant, dynamic and thriving hub of the Hunter Region.
“I look forward to working with Coordinator General for the Central Coast Lee Shearer, Central Coast Council and many other stakeholders to help bring the bold vision for the region and its capital to life,” Mr Cassel said.
To read the reports and submit comments, visit Central Coast Regional Plans.
Visit the site for artists impressions of the revitalised Kibble park and an image of Mr Cassel.