Lismore City Council has enlisted two of Australia's most experienced planners to shape a long-term strategy for growth, as the regional centre positions itself for a population of around 60,000 people.
The Local Strategic Planning Statement (LSPS), now in development, will provide the policy framework to guide land use, infrastructure, and investment priorities across the local government area. It will align with and challenge state, regional, and local strategies, ensuring that growth is coordinated and sustainable.
Lismore City Mayor Steve Krieg said early, and careful planning was critical to securing a prosperous and healthy future for Lismore.
"Lismore needs to be ready for appropriately planned growth whether it comes sooner or later," he said
"This is about building a smart, sustainable regional city that can provide jobs, infrastructure, cultural and lifestyle opportunities for those of us who live here now – as well as the generations to come."
"It is a about ensuring we can continue to have the lifestyle we enjoy now while acknowledging the opportunity change presents."
Well-managed growth is critical for regional centres with research showing stronger populations attract greater health, education, lifestyle, and employment opportunities.
The LSPS is expected to identify opportunities not only in Lismore's urban centre but across its towns and villages, with new investment and housing options anticipated as part of the long-term strategy.
Council has engaged Gary White and Brendan Nelson of Solve Property Group to co-author the plan. White, a former chief planner for both NSW and Queensland, was named Australian Planner of the Year in 2018.
Nelson, who has served as Deputy Secretary of the NSW Department of Planning and Environment and CEO of the Regional Growth NSW Development Corporation, has twice been recognised as Planner of the Year, and is a past national president of the Planning Institute of Australia.
The draft LSPS for Lismore will be released for public exhibition in early 2026, with Council seeking community input before final adoption.
"This is a once-in-a-generation chance to get the balance right," Krieg said. "If we plan well today, Lismore will be positioned as a regional leader tomorrow."
