Central Coast Council is inviting the community to provide feedback on the draft Leisure and Aquatic Strategy 2025-2035, on public exhibition from Thursday 5 June to Thursday 3 July 2025.

The draft strategy sets a clear, 10-year framework to guide the future of the Coast’s key leisure and aquatic services and facilities. It focuses on infrastructure upgrades, asset management and program expansion, designed to support active lifestyles, improve community wellbeing and maximise participation across all ages and abilities.

Central Coast Council Director Community and Recreation Services, Melanie Smith said the strategy has been informed by existing data, community feedback and population growth projections.

“This draft strategy is about making sure we have the right services and facilities in the right places to support the Central Coast’s growing and changing population,” Ms Smith said.

“By 2036, more than 414,000 people are expected to call the Coast home. Our leisure and aquatic centres need to reflect the broad and evolving needs of our residents, across all ages, backgrounds, abilities and interests.

“We’ve developed the draft strategy using feedback from our regular surveys and now we’re asking the community – have we got it right? Your input during this public exhibition will help shape the final strategy.”

The strategy applies to some of the region’s most well-used facilities, including the Peninsula Leisure Centre, Gosford Olympic Pool, Lake Haven Recreation Centre, Toukley Aquatic Centre, Wyong Pool and Niagara Park Stadium.

Mayor Lawrie McKinna said the Leisure and Aquatic Strategy 2025-2035 is an important step in planning for a healthy, connected and active community. 

“Our leisure and aquatic facilities are part of everyday life for so many people in the region, whether it’s learning to swim, shooting hoops, joining a local club or catching up with friends,” Mayor McKinna said.

“We want to make sure our facilities continue to meet community needs and aspirations. This is your chance to help shape what these spaces look like now and into the future.”

Have your say

View the draft strategy and provide your feedback from Thursday 5 June to Thursday 3 July.

Alternatively, drop by one our pop-up events to chat with the project team and share your feedback:

• Peninsula Leisure Centre: Monday 16 June, 4.30-6.30pm
• Lake Haven Recreation Centre: Wednesday 18 June, 9-11am
  The Leisure and Aquatic Strategy 2025-2035 aligns with the Community Strategic Plan and supports Council’s goal of creating well-maintained, activated spaces that enhance quality of life, encourage healthy lifestyles and strengthen social connections.

Feedback received during the public exhibition period will directly inform the final strategy to be considered for adoption by Council.

For more information, search ‘leisure and aquatic strategy’ at yourvoiceourcoast.com