Port Macquarie-Hastings Council has adopted its operational plan for the 2018/19 financial year.

The plan details the actions, activities, projects, budget and performance measures Council will deliver on behalf of the community during the next financial year.

Mayor Peta Pinson said that hundreds of conversations had occurred with the community in recent months, and more than 100 formal submissions were received during the public exhibition period.

“This level of engagement demonstrates that there is a real interest in how and where Council are focusing our efforts, allocating resources and spending ratepayer’s money,” Ms Pinson said.

“It is extremely encouraging to know that our community are taking an active interest in Council matters, and with our planning being an ongoing process we encourage input at any time.

During 2018/19 more than $57million of exciting community infrastructure projects will occur across the region, including more than $2 million in road resealing works, $1 million in local road improvements, $646,000 to renew stormwater assets, $500,000 to construct new footpaths and $1 million in playground and reserve improvements

A brief snapshot of key projects across the region is as follows.

Laurieton/Camden Haven and surrounds:

• Provision of centralised sewerage in Comboyne
• Continuation of Camden Haven River boating improvements
• Rehabilitation of the Dunbogan Bridge
• New Pedestrian Crossing on Bold St

Port Macquarie:

• Commencement of the Port Macquarie Airport Terminal upgrade
• Detailed design for the Port Macquarie Swimming Pool
• Commencement of the Port Macquarie Coastal Walk upgrades
• Detailed design for an upgrade to John Oxley Drive

Wauchope, rural and surrounds:

• Provision of centralised sewerage in Long Flat and Telegraph Point
• Beechwood Road stage 5 development
• Hastings Regional Sport Facility stage 1 development
• Rehabilitation of Bago Rd from Cameron St to Pacific Hwy

Council will also deliver essential services such as water, stormwater, sewer and waste and continue to maintain more than $2 billion of assets on behalf of the community.

General Manager Craig Swift-McNair said that this year’s plan builds on the successes of recent years, and balances community priorities with the resources and funding available.

“In a time of unprecedented growth across our region, it is extremely important that Council remained focused on delivering the immediate needs of our community in an effective and efficient way, whilst ensuring we have a clear vision for our community’s future.”

A handy map of key projects by region, and the full 2018/19 Operational Plan can be viewed at Council’s website pmhc.nsw.gov.au/operationalplan.

Hard copies will also be available to view at Council offices and libraries in Laurieton, Port Macquarie and Wauchope.

For further information contact Council on 6581 8111.

This article has been republished with permission from the Port Macquarie-Hastings Council.