Lake Macquarie City Council will invest $395 million in the next twelve months through its Operational Plan 2020-2021, helping drive the city’s economy as the recovery from COVID-19 continues.

Council voted recently to approve the plan, which contains 335 actions and $116 million of capital works projects that will boost the local economy.

Lake Macquarie Mayor, Cr Kay Fraser, said the community has done an exceptional job in following the COVID-19 restrictions, but this has had its toll on people’s livelihoods and many local businesses.

This plan will keep the local economy moving and create more jobs for the community.

“This is a really important plan, more so than in previous years, as it sets out the direction for our recovery beyond COVID-19,” Kay said.

“We know many people and businesses have been doing it tough, so it is critical for Council to implement a robust plan that helps increase employment options and provides a kickstart to our local economy.”

Deputy Mayor, Cr Nick Jones, echoed the Mayor’s sentiment and is looking forward to seeing the many actions and range of projects completed in the coming year.

“It is an exciting plan with a range of great projects that I can’t wait to see completed, from roads, footpaths, parks and playgrounds, and community spaces,” Nick said.

“I encourage residents to take a look at what is planned for the year ahead.”

The plan outlines a range of investment in public infrastructure throughout the city, including 40 per cent of the budget dedicated to improving the lifestyle and wellbeing of our community.

Highlights include:

• $70 million in capital works to replace or upgrade existing assets, and $45 million on adding new assets
• $70.6 million invested in roads, drains, footpaths, and shared pathways
• $2.4 million to revitalise Pearson Street Mall in Charlestown
• $19.8 million for new and improved parks, playgrounds, sporting facilities and swim centres
• Beginning works on the $3 million Speers Point Multi Arts Place to strengthen our reputation as a premier cultural destination
• Working with Lake Macquarie Landcare to plant 30,000 native plants at Blacksmiths, Caves Beach, Catherine Hill Bay and Swansea Heads
• Ongoing design and stage one construction of the Fernleigh Awabakal Shared Track linking the Fernleigh Track with Blacksmiths
• Renewing Council’s Multicultural Plan to ensure the city remains a leader in creating welcoming and inclusive communities
• Starting a major upgrade to create an exciting recreational precinct at Thomas H Halton Park in Croudace Bay.

Council’s CEO, Morven Cameron, said it has been a challenging time, but council was moving quickly to do what it could to drive the economy and support our community.

“Across the country we have seen a downturn in the economy, so it has been important for council to continue to maintain and adapt our services for the community to ensure a sense of normality,” Morven said.

“Putting the operational plan together we have concentrated on making sure this year’s plan recognises council’s important role in keeping our local economy moving.

“There are a number of highlights and actions outlined in the plan that will provide a significant boost to the local economy, as well continuing to protect our lifestyle and deliver the day-to-day services and facilities we all value.”

Council’s approved Operational Plan follows a suite of support initiatives in response to COVID-19 including assistance for community groups and organisations, local businesses, sporting groups and residents experiencing financial hardship.

Council’s Revised Delivery Program 2017-2022 and Operational Plan 2020-2021 is available via the Lake Macquarie City Council website.

IMAGE | Mayor Kay Fraser and Swansea MP Yasmin Catley at the Belmont end of the Fernleigh Track.