People in the Port Macquarie-Hastings region are helping to shape the future for growth by providing feedback on a council plan. 

Port Macquarie-Hastings Council director Jeffery Sharp said the pop-up meetings to discuss the Urban Growth Management Strategy (UGMS) have been well received and well attended. 

Mr Sharpe said about 50 people stopped by in Laurieton on November 22 to have a chat to council staff about the UGMS and its framework which covers growth up until the year 2036. 

Staff took the time Mr Sharpe said at the Laurieton meeting to talk to community members about the infrastructure provision to address ongoing population growth in the area west of Lakewood and also that around Kendall. 

It is forecast the Port Macquarie-Hastings region will need around 500 new homes every year until 2036, and with an aging population, the types of housing required will need to be well planned.

Council is working closely with the NSW State Government to plan for a wider range of housing choice, new employment opportunities and infrastructure.

Mr Sharpe said it was very important for the community to provide feedback either in person or through making a submission. 

“The input is important because ultimately the plan will shape how our area grows in the foreseeable future,” he said. 

Pop-up meetings have been based at Laurieton, Lake Cathie and Wauchope. Meetings are also scheduled for Lake Innes on Friday, November 24 outside Coles between 10am-11.30. Meetings are also on in Port Macquarie on Monday, November 27 outside the Glasshouse between 11.30am-1pm and 2pm-4pm at council’s offices in Burrawan Street.

The draft strategy will be available for community input until Friday, December 22 at Council’s website pmhc.nsw.gov.au/ugms, by visiting Council offices in Laurieton, Port Macquarie and Wauchope or by calling 6581 8111.