A new Local Housing Strategy is expected to set the blueprint for future growth across the Port Stephens LGA.
Councillors endorsed the proposal during the week to meet the needs of the region, which could increase by 20,000 residents over the next two decades.
Deputy mayor Leah Anderson admitted housing was one of the biggest issues facing the community.
“For the past few years, we know that the lack of affordable accommodation has been impacting local residents,” she said.
“As house prices continue to rise, more and more people have been forced to look outside of Port Stephens for a place to live.
“We want to ensure everyone has a place to call home.
“That’s whether they are health, aged care or hospitality workers wanting to live close to work, a family raising young children or residents looking to downsize as they grow older.”
The Port Stephens Local Housing Strategy and the Port Stephens Housing Supply Plan focus on addressing issues around diversity, affordability and supply.
It identifies what types of housing can be built, where new homes can be located and what’s required to support new development.
“This strategy identifies opportunities for more town houses and apartments in our town centres close to shops, services and public transport,” Cr Anderson said.
“By increasing the diversity and affordability of housing types, our residents can continue to live in their community close to family, friends and networks through all stages of their life.”
Over the past eight months, council engaged with locals online and face-to-face, including hosting a Housing Forum in November 2023 with more than 50 representatives from community, business and industry and more recently a Facebook Live and three drop-in sessions in Raymond Terrace, Medowie and the Tomaree Library.
“People have made it very clear that if we are going to increase housing, we need to also plan for the infrastructure required to support the population growth,” Cr Anderson said.
“We heard that roads, health services, schools and public spaces all need to grow to meet future demand.
“This feedback has been included in the strategy and we’ll be working to secure funding to help deliver these important services.
“We’ve also included actions to work with Homes NSW and community housing providers.
“This will help us deliver the NSW government affordable and social housing targets.
“A review of all council-owned land and buildings is also on the list, which will help us find opportunities for new affordable and social housing.
“As a council, we are committed to the getting housing right.
“We need more housing but we also need more services… we know one can’t happen without the other.
“This strategy sets the framework, however we will still engage with the community along the way.
“Having this strategy endorsed is the first step in moving forward.
“There is so much more to be done but by working together, we can make positive change, setting Port Stephens up for the future.”
For further details, go to pscouncil.info/housing-strategy
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