Central Coast Council has appointed Luke Nicholls as its new Director Environment and Planning, following an extensive recruitment process. Mr Nicholls commenced in the role on 16 June 2025.

In this position, Mr Nicholls will lead Council’s Environment and Planning directorate, overseeing key functions including Strategic Planning, Development Assessment, Environmental Management, Environmental Compliance and Commercial Property and Business Enterprise.

A highly experienced city planner, Mr Nicholls holds qualifications in urban and regional planning, environmental law and public policy. He has held senior executive roles in local government across New South Wales, including Port Macquarie-Hastings Council, Bankstown City Council and Blue Mountains City Council.

In addition to his local government experience, Mr Nicholls has served as Principal and CEO of a leading national economics and planning professional services company. Most recently, he was Director of the Planning Partnership Office, a collaboration between NSW Government agencies and local councils focused on planning and delivering growth across Western Sydney.

Council CEO David Farmer said Council is fortunate to welcome Mr Nicholls to the executive team.

As the third largest council in New South Wales, Central Coast Council manages one of the state’s most diverse environmental and built communities. With a growing population, the Environment and Planning directorate plays a key role in supporting sustainable growth while protecting the lifestyle valued by the local community.