AFFINITY has been named by Central Coast Council as the successful organisation to deliver tourism marketing and industry services for the Central Coast for the next two years.Bringing together a consortium of three companies, AFFINITY’s expertise extends across international and domestic tourism marketing;

The Peninsula Leisure Centre (PLC) is preparing for a swag of improvement and upgrade works over the winter months, as part of a $500,000 investment into one of the region’s premier recreational facilities.Members and visitors will soon be able to enjoy a refurbished sauna, steam room and showers, while the program pool will also be fitted with a new heating system.The main pool will also be the recipient of new starting blocks and an electronic timing system valued at $135,000 – thanks to the recently announced Stronger Communities Funding from the NSW Government.Other general repairs and painting will be undertaken during the upgrade, with new lighting is also scheduled for installation in the popular sports hall.During the works, access to some areas of the PLC will be limited, with the pool hall closed between Monday 19 June to Friday 23 June 2017.The Health Club, Sports Hall and Crèche will remain open for the duration of the project.If you have any questions regarding the upcoming works, closure dates or impacts on scheduled programs or services at the PLC, please contact reception on 4325 8123.Council would like to thank members and visitors for their understanding and cooperation while these important upgrades are completed.

Berkeley Vale will be a hub of activity when we finish upgrading the recreational facilities to meet the growing needs of the area.The run-down play space at Berkeley Park, off Bundilla Parade (near the traffic lights), has been transformed into a natural play space.The new look play space is now open, and visitors to the park will enjoy trying out new equipment with more natural elements, creating a space for children to play, climb and use their imaginations.Across the other side of the road, the popular skate park next to Berkeley Vale Oval is now even bigger and better.Local riders will notice it’s been expanded with extra elements such as ramps.

Council wishes to advise that a temporary road closure will be in place along Morgans Road, Wendoree Park, on Thursday 8 June from 9am – 3pm, while essential road pavement investigation works are carried out.The project will involve the complete closure of Morgans Road, between the bushfire trail and the Neverfail Park.Residents on Morgans Road will not have vehicular access to their properties during this time and are encouraged to plan any travel around the scheduled works.Warning signs will be in place to notify motorists of the changed traffic conditions and crews will be available to provide assistance to nearby residents and access to emergency vehicles if required.Council would like to take this opportunity to thank the community for their patience while these important works are carried out and apologises for any inconvenience.

Council’s plan for managing the impacts of storms and coastal erosion on its southern beaches has been formally certified by the NSW Government.Council’s Gosford Beaches Coastal Zone Management Plan will now guide Council’s approach to the protection of public and private property from future coastal erosion.Council Administrator, Mr Ian Reynolds, said the certification of the Plan was the start of the process of Council, the community, landowners and the State Government working together to protect the Coast’s unique coastline for generations to come.“The community’s right to access and enjoy our beaches is paramount and this Plan clearly outlines the responsibilities of landowners and government to ensure that can happen,” Mr Reynolds said.“Now the Plan has been gazetted, Council is the consent authority for most protection works on beaches and nearby land.  Landowners are reminded they must lodge a development application to get approval for such works before they proceed.”“This process is in place to ensure that the presence of any protection works does not adversely impact on adjoining private and public property or affect the long-term amenity of a public beach.”Now the Plan has been certified, Council is in a position to apply for State Government funding to help manage coastal hazards and other issues in a timely and cost-effective manner.The Office of Environment and Heritage (OEH) is currently undertaking a cost-benefit analysis for its design of a proposed revetment wall along the whole of Wamberal Beach.“Once the design, cost benefit analysis and construction cost is completed by OEH and made available to Council, Council can then have an informed and constructive conversation with local landowners, State Government, and the community about a possible permanent solution for beach erosion at Wamberal and how it might be funded,” Mr Reynolds said.“We need to ensure any permanent solution for Wamberal Beach balances the needs of private landholders to protect their properties, ensures the community can continue to access and enjoy this popular public beach, and provides an appropriate means of funding those works”.Residents are urged to contact Council if they are planning protective works on their coastal properties for further advice.

Temporary traffic control measures will be in place along a section of West Street, Umina, on Friday 2 June, while Central Coast Council completes asphalting works.The project will be undertaken between 7pm – 5am to minimise the impact on local traffic and nearby residents.Works will be carried out between Barrenjoey Road and Morris Street and be finalised on Saturday 3 June.Crews will manage the project schedule to ensure there is minimal impact on nearby residents as a result of these works.Warning signs will be in place for the duration of the project to notify motorists of the changed conditions and traffic will be detoured around The Esplanade.Council would like to take this opportunity to thank the community for their patience while these important works are carried out and apologises for any inconvenience.

Central Coast Council has awarded the tender for CCTV installation works in Terrigal and Copacabana thanks to funding from the Federal Government’s Safer Streets Programme.Announced in late-2016, the $550,000 grant will see the installation of 16 new CCTV cameras across a range of locations in Terrigal and Copacabana in addition to the upgrade of four existing cameras.Installation locations include the Haven, Copacabana Skate Park, the Captain Cook Lookout and shopping strips in both suburbs.The successful tender, from ECS Services Pty Ltd will see works begin in June, with the new cameras set to be fully operational in November 2017.Council Administrator, Mr Ian Reynolds, said he was looking forward to seeing the positive benefits the Safer Streets funding would bring to these beachside communities.“The installation of additional CCTV is a great result for residents in both Terrigal and Copacabana,” said Mr Reynolds.“We’ve already seen the impact this funding has had in suburbs across the Central Coast thanks to first round funding received in September 2014.“The installation of CCTV is a strong deterrent for anti-social behaviour and ensures that residents can feel safer in their neighbourhood.“This is a great initiative and once again, I’d like to thank the Federal Government and Lucy Wicks for this latest round of funding.”Safer Streets funding has already been rolled out through Kariong, Kincumber, Gosford and the Peninsula following first round funding received in September 2014.

Central Coast Council has paid tribute to former local Member for Gosford and local cancer activist, Mrs Kathy Smith, who lost her own battle with cancer yesterday.Council Administrator, Mr Ian Reynolds said Kathy Smith was renowned for her commitment to the local community, particularly her campaigning for the Central Coast Cancer Centre which includes public radiotherapy services.“Kathy was a remarkable woman who dedicated her life to serving her community,” Mr Reynolds said.“From her passion and commitment to improving the lives of local cancer survivors as the Chairwoman of NSW Cancer Voices to her service to the people of Gosford and the Peninsula as an elected representative, her drive and tenacity were beyond question.”“On behalf of Central Coast Council, I extend our deepest condolences to Kathy’s family and friends at this time.”The flag at Central Coast Council will fly at half-mast today in acknowledgement of Kathy’s passing.

As the weather turns cooler and the winter woollies come out, it’s a great time to enjoy some of the many arts and cultural activities here on the Central Coast.Grant Molony, based in Long Jetty, is a local indigenous painter and photographer and is also a proud ambassador of the ‘This is the life’ campaign promoting the Central Coast.“The arts scene on the Coast is really starting to flourish,” he says.

Council welcomes the local tourism industry’s decision to continue with an industry body to input into the direction of the coast’s tourism, following an industry group meeting convened by Central Coast Tourism last night.CEO Rob Noble said it was an exciting time for tourism on the Central Coast with more changes happening now than have happened in the last twenty years.“The passion and commitment of the local tourism industry is great,” Mr Noble said.“Combined with Council’s increased investment, a new Destination Network with a purpose to capitalise on increased visitor growth opportunity, a new Destination Management Plan and the advent of a new marketing approach to implement it – we are all hopeful that we can all head in the same direction to deliver more for our region.“The local tourism industry told us over 18 months ago that they wanted improvements on how tourism is approached with a clear message to create the environment for tourism to flourish. That is what we are doing.”Council will work with Central Coast Tourism on the type of industry body and how it fits together with Council’s new service provider who will be contracted to deliver a marketing strategy and associated program for the local tourism industry to promote economic development and enhance tourism opportunities on the Coast.Council is continuing discussions with the first ranked tenderer to enter into a two year contract commencing on 1 July 2017.

When Central Coast Council was established in May 2016, the State Government decreed that the four planning instruments currently applying across the Coast should remain in place until a new Local Environmental Plan (LEP) is adopted.  As a result, development continues to be assessed under the planning controls which were in place prior to the merger.In order to move towards a uniform set of planning controls across the Coast, Council has developed a draft consolidated LEP.

Anyone interested in running for office as a Councillor in the September local government elections is encouraged to attend one of the three Candidate Awareness Sessions being run by Central Coast Council.Featuring a keynote speaker from the NSW Electoral Commission, the sessions are designed to help potential candidates understand what being a Councillor means in 2017, as well as highlighting the leadership role of a Councillor for the broader community.Sessions will be held on:Monday 29 May (6pm–8pm)Central Coast CouncilWyong Administration Building2 Hely Street, Wyong*Childcare facilities will be available at this sessionThursday 1 June (6pm–8pm)Central Coast CouncilGosford Administration Building49 Mann Street, Gosford*Childcare facilities will be available at this sessionTuesday 6 June (6pm–8pm)Shelly Beach Surf ClubShelly Beach Road, Shelly BeachTo register your interest for any of the sessions visit cccandidates.eventbrite.com.auThe election will be held on Saturday 9 September and is being run by the NSW Electoral Commission.For more information about how to nominate for your local council election – including registration details, voting processes and important dates – visit the NSW Electoral Commission at elections.nsw.gov.auYou can also find out more about what is involved in being a Councillor by visiting the Office of Local Government at olg.nsw.gov.au

Central Coast Council are undertaking a review of Alcohol-Free Zones across the region, with proposed locations on public exhibition for a period of 28 days.Alcohol-Free Zones aim to reduce alcohol related crime, violence and anti-social behaviour in identified locations in order to help create a safer environment for the whole community.An Alcohol-Free Zone relates to public roads, car parks and footpaths, however, these zones will not restrict outdoor dining licences where Council approval has been granted.The zones will be in place for a four (4) year period and Council is currently seeking feedback from the community regarding the establishment of Alcohol-Free Zones in the following suburbs:Avoca Beach;

Central Coast Council has today confirmed five executive appointments to its Leadership Team.An interim leadership was appointed at the time of the formation of the Council to lead the organisation through the initial stages of amalgamation.Council Chief Executive Officer, Mr Rob Noble, said these appointments can now be confirmed following an exhaustive external recruitment process attracting candidates from across Australia.“The calibre of candidates we attracted is particularly pleasing and highlights the strong interest in working for a new local government area that is now a major region in its own right with so many opportunities to really make a difference,” Mr Noble said.“I have chosen leaders who are customer-focused, collaborative, passionate and professional and truly committed to transforming our organisation and making the Central Coast the very best it can be.”“These leaders have an established track record and have ably risen to the challenges of our first year as one Council and I am pleased to continue to serve the Central Coast community with them.”The confirmed appointments are:Group Leader Assets, Infrastructure and Business – Mike DowlingGroup Leader Environment and Planning – Scott CoxChief Financial Officer – Stephen NavenExecutive Manager People and Culture – Kellie ReevesExecutive Manager Governance – Brian GlendenningThey join Group Leader Connected Communities, Julie Vaughan and Chief Information Officer, David Kennedy who were appointed to their positions last year with Executive Manager Transformation and Business Performance, Sally Ingram, rounding out the Leadership Team.Council Administrator, Mr Ian Reynolds, welcomed the appointments which will provide the stable leadership the organisation needs to continue to support the outlook and vision of the new Central Coast Council.“I have worked with these leaders from the start of my time here and I rate them as some of the best Executives I have come across in my long career,” Mr Reynolds said.“They have been here from the start and will continue to lead the organisation as it goes from strength to strength.”The Leadership Team are employed under contracts in accordance with the form of contract for senior staff under the Local Government Act.

Tourism experts to deliver best services for the industry and the CoastCouncil will continue to deliver tourism marketing and industry services for the Central Coast with the assistance of expert external providers.See Separate ReleaseNew Central Coast Urban Design Panel established and consent periods confirmedExpressions of interest will soon be called for a newly created Central Coast Urban Design Panel to assist Council deliver high quality infrastructure, planning and urban projects.See Separate ReleaseBuilding a solid foundation for the newly elected CouncilCouncil is finalising preparations for the upcoming local government elections, with the exhibition of a draft Code of Conduct, Code of Meeting Practice and Councillor Expenses and Facilities Policy.Council will also be concluding the operation of the Local Representation Committee (LRC) – consisting of 18 former Councillors from the former Gosford City and Wyong Shire Councils.Council Administrator, Mr Ian Reynolds, said the LRC had proven to be a valuable resource over the last 12 months.“The LRC have provided invaluable advice on key issues around the environment, the economy and community issues unique to the Central Coast,” said Mr Reynolds.“The conclusion of the LRC next month will allow some clear air between the operations of the committee and the election process – with the opportunity to nominate as a candidate commencing on 31 July.“Irrespective of who may stand for election, this will allow an equal playing field to all of those proposing to stand for election in September.“I would like to take this opportunity to thank the members of the LRC for their ongoing commitment and contribution to Central Coast Council and I wish them the very best in their future endeavours.”Exhibiting the draft Codes and Policies will provide potential candidates with a greater understanding of meeting processes and the expectations of Councillors.The draft Code of Conduct is an integral part of Council’s governance framework and provides guidance on public comment, gifts and benefits and confidentiality;

Council will continue to deliver tourism marketing and industry services for the Central Coast with the assistance of expert external providers.Council recently called for requests for proposals for suitably qualified organisations to deliver these services, receiving fourteen proposals.

Expressions of interest will soon be called for a newly created Central Coast Urban Design Panel to assist Council deliver high quality infrastructure, planning and urban projects.The Panel will consist of up to 6 members in the fields of architecture and urban design to provide independent design review of significant project for both private and public developments across the region.Council Administrator, Mr Ian Reynolds, said the Council’s population is projected to reach over 415,000 by 2036 so the time was right to establish an independent panel that would help promote a range of quality housing options for the growing community.“Due to the expected growth in development on the Coast and the need for consistency in quality and design, it is the right time to re-establish an Urban Design Panel on the Central Coast,” Mr Reynolds said.“Having this Panel provides an opportunity to utilise high calibre and relevant expertise that will assist in achieving better design quality of buildings and public domain areas.”“It sends a clear message to the development industry that what we are interested here on the Coast is not just development for development’s sake but quality development for our growing community.”All Development Applications lodged with Council that are 4 storeys or more will be referred to a member of the Panel for review.Council currently charges a fee to developers for external referrals in relation to design and this will be used to pay for the panel’s expertise.Council will also now apply a lapsing period of five years for all development consents on the Coast with the exception of those applications subject to the Gosford Local Environment Plan 2014 bonus provisions.“The former Gosford and Wyong Councils had different default periods for the lapsing of consents, and this new policy ensures consistency across the Coast  - which is definitely what we need as a community and what the development sector needs to proceed,” Mr Reynolds said.“This 5 year period is applied by nearly all councils, as it gives developers of substantial projects time to secure finance and buyers and arrange builders and contractors and to work through the often complex conditions of consent.”“There is an exception to this and it is in respect to the Gosford CBD – where Council will impose a 2 year consent lapsing period to get development moving faster in what is now the regional capital of the Central Coast.”

National Reconciliation Week celebrations will be launched on the Coast this week with the official opening of the Maliga Indigenous Art Showcase at The Art House, Wyong, on Friday 26 May.Maliga, which means ‘shine’ in Darkinjung, is a Youth Based Art Showcase promoting local Indigenous young people’s multimedia art and craft that reflects their identity and cultural connection to the Central Coast.The fourth annual showcase will be launched at the Art House on Friday 26 May at 10am and includes the presentation of Awards and morning tea.Council Group Leader Connected Communities, Ms Julie Vaughan, said the popularity of the showcase continues to grow each year.“In just four years, Maliga now has more schools involved, giving more Indigenous students a chance to showcase their work,” Ms Vaughan said.“The quality of work the students produce is also increasing and is just amazing.“It’s not just paintings;

The NSW Rural Fire Service (RFS) in conjunction with Central Coast Council recently completed hazard reduction works in bushland off Hue Hue Road, Jilliby.The work consisted of the prescribed burning of vegetation, minimising bushfire fuel and assisting in reducing the intensity and adverse impact of bushfires in extreme weather conditions.It marks the final stage of Council’s $50,000 upgrade to the Jilliby South Fire Trail and the surrounding area.Council Administrator, Mr Ian Reynolds, said the investment was part of a concerted effort to improve access and safety in bushfire prone locations.“A number of issues were raised by residents in regards to the Jilliby South Fire Trail.

Central Coast Council is encouraging residents to get involved in Second Hand Saturday – one of the biggest days of garage sales the Central Coast has seen – being held on Saturday 3 June.Second Hand Saturday encourages residents on the Central Coast to hold a garage sale to sell, swap or give away their pre-loved goods.Council is encouraging residents to get involved and register their garage sale, with free promotion on Council’s website for households participating in Second Hand Saturday.Acting Group Leader of Assets, Infrastructure and Business, Mr Boris Bolgoff, said that Second Hand Saturday was a great way to minimise our impact on the environment.“Reusing and recycling goods is great for the environment and can significantly reduce the number of items that end up in landfill,” said Mr Bolgoff.“There’s no better time than Second Hand Saturday to register your garage sale, help the environment, and find a bargain or two."Second Hand Saturday is open to residents of the Central Coast Council LGA.Residents are encouraged to register using the online booking form located at gosford.nsw.gov.au/secondhandsaturdayFor further information please contact Council on 4325 8222 or 4350 5555 during business hours or email waste@centralcoast.nsw.gov.au