MORE than 1800 new homes are to be fast-tracked across the Port Macquarie-Hastings following a major investment in housing and planning by the Minns Government.
Council will receive $200,000 through round three of the NSW Regional Housing Strategic Planning Fund for its “Port Macquarie planning control review to unlock housing”.
The funding will support the Council to review and update planning controls and housing strategies to accelerate the delivery of more diverse and affordable housing options for the growing regional population.
A Council spokesperson said, “council is seeking to partner with a suitably qualified consultant to review planning controls in the Port Macquarie City Heart Precinct.
“The project will focus on a review of principal planning controls and preparation of a planning proposal to amend these controls to facilitate additional housing development of 2000 dwellings.
“This initiative is not only essential for accommodating the rising population in our vibrant regional township but also aims to enhance the community’s overall living conditions by providing more housing options.
“By addressing the urgent housing demand, this project will play a crucial role in shaping a sustainable future for Port Macquarie.”
The $4.4 million investment across the state is part of the Minns Government’s broader housing reform agenda, which includes the Low and Mid-Rise Housing Policy and the Transport Oriented Development program.
Minister for Planning and Public Spaces Paul Scully said, “by investing in planning today, we’re helping councils deliver the homes, parks, transport connections, and infrastructure communities need, and making sure young people and families can continue to build their futures in the regions.
“Through this fund, we’re giving councils the tools to deliver better-designed, more liveable communities across regional NSW, close to transport, jobs, and essential services.”
In regional NSW, the state-wide funding is expected to help fast-track a target of 55,000 new homes.
This initiative follows earlier rounds of the Regional Housing Strategic Planning Fund, which allocated $6.88 million to 36 projects across the state.
By Sis HIGGINS
