Cessnock City Council is seeking feedback on the Draft Community Strategic Plan Cessnock 2036, the Delivery Program 2022-26, and the Operational Plan and Budget 2022-23.
The Community Strategic Plan is the highest level strategy that Council prepares as part of its Integrated Planning and Reporting Framework. It identifies the community's main priorities for the future, and is the guiding document for Council's programs, plans and reports.
Council's Operational Plan includes an impressive $53.8 million Capital Works Program for 2022-23, $28 million of which is grant funded, while remaining in surplus. There has also been an increase in resourcing to fast-track this largely grant funded program of works, as well as an investment in trainee and apprentice roles.
In line with community feedback, local roads and pathways will receive a $27 million investment in 2022-23, and the roads maintenance budget sees a 14.3% increase to $5.8 million.
Cessnock City Council's Acting General Manager Robert Maginnity said the success of our community relies heavily on our ability to strategically plan for the future and deliver positive outcomes for every resident in the Cessnock LGA.
"The Draft 2022-26 Delivery Program incorporates hundreds of projects and initiatives that will provide far reaching social, economic and environmental benefits to our community," Robert said.
"We have heard overwhelmingly from our community that our road network is in need of attention, and I think residents will be pleased to see additional funds and resources invested in this area."
Cessnock City Council Mayor Jay Suvaal is encouraging local residents to view the plans and provide their valuable feedback.
"The voices of our residents are critical to ensure we are meeting their needs, and getting these plans right," Cr Suvaal said.
"There are some really exciting projects coming up in 2022-23 including the commencement of the RFS Aviation Fire Base project, the Bridges Hill to Wine Country Drive shared pathway, and the completion of the Branxton to Greta Cycleway."
Other highlights of the 2022-23 Budget include:
- Completion of Cessnock Airport upgrade
- Continuing upgrade works on Wollombi Road
- Kurri Kurri Town Centre upgrade
- Black Spot road renewal works at George Downes Drive, Bucketty and Oakey Creek Road, Cessnock
- Watagan Creek, Laguna bridge replacement
- Sandy Creek Road, Quorrobolong road renewal
Residents can provide feedback on the Draft Community Strategic Plan 2036, the Delivery Program 2022-26, and the Operational Plan and Budget 2022-23 by visiting the Have your say page on Council's website.
