Coffs Harbour

Draft Regional City Action Plan 2036 Acknowledgement

The Department of Planning, Industry and Environment acknowledges the traditional custodians of the land, the , and pays respect to Elders past, present and future. This Plan acknowledges a strong belief amongst Aboriginal people that if we care for country, it will care for us. This is supported by the knowledge that the health of a people and their community is reliant on a strong physical and emotional connection to place. Conserving Aboriginal heritage and respecting the Aboriginal community’s right to determine how it is identified and managed, will preserve some of the world’s longest standing spiritual, historical, social and educational values.

Coffs Harbour Draft Regional City Action Plan 2036 © Crown Copyright, State of through the Department of Planning, Industry and Environment 2020 ISBN: 978-1-76058-385-9

Disclaimer While every reasonable effort has been made to ensure that this document is correct at the time of printing, the State of NSW, its agents and employees, disclaim any and all liability to any person in respect of anything or the consequences of anything done or omitted to be done in reliance or upon the whole or any part of this document.

Copyright notice In keeping with the NSW Government’s commitment to encourage the availability of information, you are welcome to reproduce the material that appears in the ‘Coffs Harbour Draft Regional City Action Plan 2036’ for personal, in-house or non-commercial use without formal permission or charge. All other rights are reserved. If you wish to reproduce, alter, store or transmit material appearing in the ‘Coffs Harbour Draft Regional City Action Plan 2036’ for any other purpose, a request for formal permission should be directed to ‘Coffs Harbour Draft Regional City Action Plan 2036’, Locked Bag 9022, Grafton NSW 2460. Cover image: Coffs Harbour Jetty Left: Credit Nikita Ridgeway ii Contents

A draft Regional City Action Plan for Coffs Harbour 2 City drivers 4 Vision 7 Delivery framework 8 Meet 10 Objective 1 Make the city centre a live-work-play hub 13

Objective 2 Enhance the distinctive character, heritage and design of the network of places that make up Coffs Harbour 14

Objective 3 Create engaging, creative and inclusive spaces 17

Objective 4 Cultivate Coffs Harbour’s distinctive blue and green grid for a healthier city 19

Move 20 Objective 5 Reimagine the city’s spine to reunite east and west 23

Objective 6 Create a modern, place-based transport network to connect the Coffs Coast’s communities 25

Objective 7 Expand the role of as a transport gateway 26

Objective 8 Harness connectivity across the subregion 27

Play 28 Objective 9 Celebrate the Jetty Precinct as Coffs Harbour’s premier harbourside destination 30

Objective 10 Showcase Coffs Harbour’s tourism and visitor experiences 32

Objective 11 Distinguish Coffs Harbour as a centre of sporting excellence 35

Work 36 Objective 12 Grow South Coffs Harbour as an integrated enterprise area 39

Objective 13 Optimise employment land delivery across the city and subregion 41

Objective 14 Nurture the Coffs Coast food bowl 42

Objective 15 Foster the city’s innovation ecosystem through life-long learning and promote new economy jobs 43

Live 44 Objective 16 Deliver a compact city that responds to Coffs Harbour’s unique green cradle setting and offer housing choice 46

Objective 17 Coordinate infrastructure for new housing release across the Coffs Coast 47

Objective 18 Strengthen resilience to natural hazards and climate change 50

Objective 19 Strive for a carbon neutral future and enhance local biodiversity 51

Glossary 52 Endnotes 53

1 A draft Regional City Action Plan for Coffs Harbour

Coffs Harbour is poised for big things. Coffs Harbour has one of the highest and It is transforming from its current role as an fastest growing levels of cultural diversity important coastal centre into a true in regional NSW, with a community Regional City. committed to welcoming visitors and new residents alike. The North Coast Regional Plan identified Coffs Harbour as one of four North Coast The draft plan will build on the opportunity Regional Cities. created by the Pacific bypass and will redefine links between the north and This first ever draft Regional City Action south and reunite the city’s east and west Plan for Coffs Harbour supports the Vision to forge a city of connected communities of the North Coast Regional Plan, by within a green cradle. capitalising on the opportunities that arise from growth, while maintaining the special Regional Cities provide high-level services appeal of Coffs Harbour through its and economic opportunities for their remarkable environments and attractive residents and surrounding areas. They are communities. centres of business, governance, and culture, and benefit from critical investments in major infrastructure.

North Coast My Coffs Draft Coffs Harbour Regional Community Regional City Plan 2036 Strategic Plan Action Plan

Local Strategic Planning Statement and Local Growth Management Global Strategy

National

NSW

Region

Local Government Area Regional Figure 1: City Delivering the North Coast Regional Plan 2036 within the Strategic Planning Line of Sight Site

2 Coffs Harbour Draft Regional City Action Plan 2036 North Coast Regional Plan 2036

The most stunning A thriving, Vibrant and Great housing environment interconnected engaged choice and lifestyle in NSW economy communities options

Draft Coffs Harbour Regional City Action Plan

Meet Move Play Work Live

GOAL An inclusive, A city of A playful city with A skilled and A regional healthy and connected opportunities innovative city exemplar of cohesive city built communities and to be active, blending work-life coastal, from a network of a gateway to the inspired and balance and cosmopolitan character-filled wider region. competitive. subregional living set within places. cooperation. the green embrace of the .

1 5 9 12 16 Make the Reimagine Celebrate the Grow South Deliver a city centre a the city’s spine Jetty Precinct as Coffs Harbour as compact city that live-work-play to reunite east Coffs Harbour’s an integrated responds to Coffs hub and west premier enterprise area Harbour’s unique harbourside green cradle 2 6 13

OBJECTIVES destination setting and offer Enhance the Create a modern, Optimise housing choice distinctive place-based 10 employment land character, transport Showcase Coffs delivery across 17 heritage and network to Harbour’s the city and Coordinate design of the connect the tourism and subregion infrastructure network of places Coffs Coast’s visitor for new housing 14 that make up communities experiences release across Nurture the Coffs Coffs Harbour the Coffs Coast 7 11 Coast food bowl 3 Expand the role Distinguish Coffs 18 15 Create engaging, of Coffs Harbour Harbour as a Strengthen Foster the creative and Airport as a centre of resilience to city’s innovation inclusive spaces transport sporting natural hazards ecosystem gateway excellence and climate 4 through life-long change Cultivate 8 learning and Coffs Harbour’s Harness promote new 19 distinctive blue connectivity economy jobs Strive for a and green grid across the carbon neutral for a healthier subregion future and city enhance local biodiversity

3 Three factors will influence City Coffs Harbour’s growth as drivers a truly distinctive, welcoming and networked regional city.

1 2

Pacific Highway bypass A compact city grown and city centre sustainably within revitalisation natural boundaries The Coffs Harbour Pacific Highway Bypass is an The proximity of the coast to the Great Dividing unprecedented opportunity to transform the Range in Coffs Harbour creates a green cradle cityscape, bringing in a new era of movement that for the city’s growth and an enviable mountain-to- will redefine links to the north and south and reunite sea aspect. This setting is at the heart of what east and west. makes Coffs Harbour an attractive place to live and demands wise use of the city’s existing and The bypass will redirect through-traffic from the city future urban areas to balance expected growth centre which will reduce congestion, improve with enhanced lifestyle amenity and protection connectivity and provide opportunities for the of these assets. As the city grows, its unique former Pacific Highway to be enhanced by geography will be the foundation for renewal, promoting a greater range of uses and street level pairing the creation of new jobs and homes with well activity along the corridor. connected local places. The city centre can become a place focused on The unique character of the many places that make people – a live-work-play destination offering an up Coffs Harbour will be carried into the future. attractive urban lifestyle, interlinked to green and The Jetty will be a place to engage with nature, eat, blue spaces, arts and culture, and opportunities for relax and come together by the water. learning and collaborating. More residents and a will offer coastal living close to a lively foreshore, creative and entertainment presence will enliven the large shopping facilities and entertainment hot- night-time and weekend economy. spots. In South Coffs Harbour, the airport will act as The former Pacific Highway can be used to create a a gateway to all the city has on offer and an sense of arrival with vibrancy at street level, integrated sports, health and education precinct greenery along the edge and new public transport, centred around key knowledge and sporting cycling and walking links from north to south. New anchors will support a smarter, healthier city and mobility technology, like autonomous vehicles, new economy jobs. smart parking, and on-demand and sharing services can be leveraged for a smarter transport network.

4 Coffs Harbour Draft Regional City Action Plan 2036 North Coffs Harbour

3

Subregional networking and leadership Coffs Harbour is a regional hub for the wider LGA and surrounding communities. The higher order services on offer in the city serve a catchment that transcends local government boundaries. Continued investment in the Coffs Harbour Hospital, education campus, international stadium, justice precinct and regional airport will bring more services to the region as a whole. Coffs Harbour will support and be supported by surrounding centres such as Sawtell-Toormina, Bonville, Coramba and Woolgoolga, and the adjoining Bellingen, Nambucca and Clarence Valley communities. Individually, these communities have unique endowments that create a rich tapestry of places that collectively form the wider Coffs Coast. Building Coffs Harbour as a regional city requires a collaborative approach with these communities to address housing needs, new job opportunities, employment land supply and industry links through tourism, the creative sector and agriculture.

5 e n a b s ri B e d n a n o ft g ra G To n a R

g

n

i

d

i

v To Orana Valley

i 3 2

D

1 t

a 4 e 6

r

G 5

y ne yd S d n a n e g lin e B , a c c u b m a N To

6 Figure 2: Coffs Harbour Vision Map

e n a b s ri B e d n a n o ft g ra G Vision To City Action Plan Area n Distinctive Place Network: a 1 City Heart R Cradled between the green 2 City Spine embrace of the Great Dividing 3 Park Beach g Range and the blue expanse n 4 Jetty Core of the Pacific Ocean, Coffs i 5 South Coffs Enterprise Area Harbour is growing within its d 6 Jetty Foreshore spectacular natural setting i Future Connectivity and with respect to the v To Orana Valley spiritual connections of the Railway i 3 Gumbaynggirr people. 2 Main road

D Distinctive Places It is a welcoming city showcasing its signature 1 Environmental t blend of worldly city buzz, Parks and reserves a tapestry of places and a 4 Waterway sustainable agricultural e 6 City Centre harvest. r Commercial As a mid-way point between

G Employment Land Newcastle and South East 5 Investigation Area - Employment Land , it leads through

Existing Urban Release Area region-shaping civic, tourism, health and education anchors Investigation Area - Urban Release and works with its

Urban Renewal y ne d neighbours. y S d n a n Train Station e g lin e B , a c c Education precinct u b m a N o T Health precinct

Airport Coffs Stadium Harbour

Marina Newcastle National Park

7 The NSW Government recognises Delivery the importance of strong regional cities framework in supporting the future prosperity of the entire North Coast.

The final Coffs Harbour Regional City Key areas that will require collaboration Action Plan will support the vision and are identified in Table 1. Key partners are goals of the North Coast Regional Plan identified for this work; however, other 2036 and build on State-wide and local stakeholders will also be engaged where strategic planning. It will inform strategic project needs require. Joint Organisations and operational decision making across have been established to achieve shared NSW Government agencies and local outcomes across local government. The government. actions in the plan that require collaboration across local government The draft Coffs Harbour Regional City areas are specific to land use planning Action Plan establishes the vision, goals, outcomes only. objectives, actions, and collaboration opportunities that will guide growth and The preparation of local growth change in the city towards 2036 (Figure 3). management strategies and local strategic planning statements will also need to be The vision guides the plan’s five goals – consistent with the vision and objectives. meet, move, play, work and live. These goals shape the objectives for urban Progress will be monitored in conjunction development and infrastructure investment with the wider implementation of the North that will inform decisions at State and local Coast Regional Plan 2036 through the government levels. Targeted actions North Coast Delivery, Coordination and highlight areas for collaboration and future Monitoring Committee. work across government. This Plan will be implemented through the planning and delivery activities of Council and agencies. The collaboration of state and local governments, community groups, industry groups and other stakeholders will be pivotal to the delivery of the Plan and the identified actions.

Figure 3: Regional City Action Plan Structure

Objectives Collaboration Vision Goals and Actions opportunities

• Developed with • Steps to achieve • Guiding objectives • Key Areas for elected councillors the plan’s Vision: to be delivered future collaboration • Foundation of Meet, Move, Play, through future the draft Plan Work and Live planning • Actions are expressed in bullet points below the objective

8 Coffs Harbour Draft Regional City Action Plan 2036 Table 1: Coffs Harbour Regional City Collaboration Areas

Collaboration area Partners Target outcomes

Coffs Harbour Transport for NSW, Australian An activated city centre that delivers City Centre Government, Department of employment opportunities and is Collaboration Planning, Industry and Environment, community gathering place. opportunity 1 Department for Regional NSW, Coffs Harbour City Council

City spine renewal Coffs Harbour City Council, A land use, transport and urban design strategy Transport for NSW, framework that maximises opportunities Collaboration Government Architect NSW from the Coffs Harbour bypass project. opportunity 2

Coffs Harbour future Coffs Harbour City Council, An integrated land use and transport transport plan Transport for NSW strategy for the city’s future movement Collaboration and place needs. Opportunity 3

Jetty Precinct Property NSW, Department for Enhanced public facilities and amenity, Collaboration Regional NSW, Coffs Harbour City mixed use development, retention of opportunity 4 Council heritage values, and improved access to open space.

South Coffs Harbour Coffs Harbour City Council, A regional supporting hub in South Coffs Regional Sporting Hub Office of Sport Harbour that supports community and Collaboration elite participation in sport. opportunity 5

South Coffs Harbour Coffs Harbour City Council, South Coffs Harbour to grow into an Enterprise Area NSW Health (MNC LHD), Southern integrated enterprise area. Collaboration Cross University, University of NSW, opportunity 6 Department of Education, Office of Sport

Figure 4: Vibrant Cultural Intergenerational Word Cloud from People Partnerships visioning workshops. Tranquil Playful

These words have Lifestyle Sustainable been embedded Collective throughout the plan. Distinctive Health WelcomingSports Open Gleam Environment Pride Sharing Eclectic Connected Organic Fit-for-purpose Infrastructure NodesCommunity Diverse Colour Excellence Ideas Village Harvest Natural Authentic Close-knit Networked United Balance Showcased Healthy Pristine Retreat Events Belong Safe Education Creative Experience Leader Exchange Coexist Heart Tourism Preservation Quality Nostalgia Conferences

9 Meet

Cox Lane, Coffs Harbour City Centre

10 Goal: An inclusive, healthy and cohesive city built from a network of character-filled places Coffs Harbour Showground

COFFS CREEK

WEST HIGH STREET

PACIFIC HIGHWAY VERNON STREET Regional Botanic Gardens CASTLE STREET

DUKE STREET

ALBANY STREET

Brelsford HARBOUR DRIVE Park To Jetty Core/Foreshore

Figure 5: City Centre Masterplan - Concepts and Emerging Opportunities

Masterplan Emerging Concepts Opportunities

Coffs Harbour City Pacific Highway Greening Centre

Coffs Creek - Green Environmental Strategic Sites Ribbon

Rear Lane Activation Parks and Reserves City Spine - Existing & Long Term

Rear Lane Activation Accessible Event Waterway - New Connection Spaces

12 Coffs Harbour Draft Regional City Action Plan 2036 Other key emerging opportunities for the city Objective 1 centre, as shown on Figure 5, include: Make the city centre • Renewal of the Pacific Highway corridor, a live-work-play hub once bypassed. • Promoting the Coffs Creek as a green ribbon that Action. celebrates nature in the city and serves as a passive recreation link with the wider city. 1.1 Promote events and shared or out- • Recalibrating city greening to promote a of-hours use of spaces to encourage cohesive landscape scheme that links with the a night-time economy and extend city’s blue and green grid. the city’s service role. • Positioning the Botanic Gardens, Showgrounds and Brelsford Park as connected and accessible 1.2 Incorporate Safer-By-Design and event spaces. accessibility principles into public • Continued commercial activation of hidden areas and building design, to create public spaces such as rear laneways in the CBD. comfortable, active streets, and The World Rally welcome and closing ceremonies, protect sunlight to city parks, annual Buskers Festival and weekly Growers Market squares and footpaths. already offer a reason to visit the city centre beyond its traditional service function, as will the renewal of 1.3 Make footpaths and laneways City Square on Harbour Drive. more activated, allow al fresco dining, improve lighting in creative Increasing the number of homes in the city centre and introducing a stronger creative and ways to ease navigation. entertainment presence will extend the city centre’s Provide incentives for city centre employment and service offering and underpin a 1.4 richer night-time and weekend energy. traders and facilitate out-of-hours uses, including residential and tourist A greater range of uses and activity at night-time will also bring the city centre to life. The local accommodation and cultural planning framework provides scope for a range of activities. land uses including residential and tourist accommodation that will encourage people to visit The city centre is critical to Coffs Harbour’s success out-of-hours. as a regional city. As a key hub, it will act as a community gathering place and will host a significant share of the city’s jobs and businesses, as well as opportunities for learning and collaborating, and professional and civic services for the larger regional catchment. Additionally, the design of new buildings should avoid overshadowing along Harbour Drive and in Collaboration opportunity 1 public squares and open space, and promote accessible, lively frontages. Council, with advice from The draft Regional City Action Plan aligns with stakeholders, support the activation Council’s City Centre Masterplan 2031, which of the city centre as an employment contains a number of strategies and projects that area and community gathering support key priorities that were identified with the place by: community. The Masterplan is progressively being implemented throughout the CBD. • clustering facilities in the city The Masterplan identifies a number of strategic sites. centre to bring life to the city and These sites have been identified for their potential to make better use of public contribute to a more vibrant centre by acting as transport, taxi services, parking catalysts for wider renewal, providing opportunity for joint ventures and leveraging public domain and ancillary services like cafes enhancements. They will be further investigated to and restaurants determine the best land use and design provisions • considering opportunities for to achieve these outcomes. flexible and adaptive uses to live, work and play within the city centre

Timing: Medium

13 The Draft Urban Design for Regional NSW – A guide Objective 2 for creating healthy built environments in regional Enhance the distinctive character, NSW has been prepared specifically for regional NSW. Through the draft guide, objectives from the heritage and design of the Government Architect NSW’s Better Placed, the network of places that make up integrated design policy for the built environment of NSW, will be applied to NSW’s regions. The draft Coffs Harbour guide also supports the object of the Environmental Planning and Assessment Act 1979 to ‘promote good Actions design and amenity of the built environment’. Council should consider the draft guide when 2.1 Reinforce the character of places by developing local plans. developing local character Using the city’s green and blue backdrop, local statements for the City Centre, Jetty heritage and climate will create a stronger sense of Core and Park Beach that determine character. Building design for a subtropical climate the values and objectives for each leverages orientation, landscape features, lighter place. materials and colours whilst engaging with indoor/ outdoor transition. Design that celebrates these 2.2 Apply innovative approaches to tell attributes will be more energy and water efficient the heritage stories of places and and will suit the city’s lifestyle. adaptively reuse heritage items. The Department of Planning, Industry and Environment will work with Council to establish the 2.3 Implement local plans that enhance desired future character for the City Centre, Jetty the design quality of places through Core, and Park Beach. Lessons learnt from key site, design excellence and developing character statements for Planned design advisory provisions. Precincts in Sydney will inform this process. Council’s local heritage studies identify, protect and In Coffs Harbour’s early years, the local population manage heritage items. Council is also working with was small, local industry was transitory and the the NSW Biodiversity and Conservation Division to focus of the city divided between the coast and the develop cultural mapping. Pacific Highway. As a result, growth was sporadic, Incorporating cultural stories into the design of the with discrete precincts making up the wider city.1 city’s places, can help more people to celebrate Few areas in Coffs Harbour are distinctive to a single Gumbaynggirr stories and artisan craft. Artworks period of development and contemporary incorporated into the development of the Coffs contributions are equally diverse, reflecting Harbour Justice Precinct, facilities upgrade of subtropical and coastal influences and colour. Oval and the Jetty Foreshore upgrades The character and history of these places must be illustrate what can be achieved. Partnerships with reflected in the city’s renewal. Design affects how Aboriginal communities and companies like the spaces and places function, how they integrate, National Aboriginal Design Agency based in Coffs what they contribute to the broader environment, Harbour can link Aboriginal artists and and the people they support or attract. Focussing manufacturers to develop Aboriginal products that on the design and renewal of each of Coffs draw on a unique design aesthetic and stories. Harbour’s distinct places will pair change with Heritage assets can also be adapted to create new, strong ties to each of place’s story and character. unique places.

Park Beach

City Jetty Jetty Centre Core Foreshore

South Coffs Figure 6: Coffs Harbour distinctive place network

14 Coffs Harbour Draft Regional City Action Plan 2036 Place Character Strategies

City Centre

• Green cycling and walking links along Harbour Drive and Hogbin Drive will connect to the city centre, Brelsford Park, Coffs Creek and South Coffs Harbour. • Development provides a mix of housing types, respects local heritage and character. • Brelsford Park is a safe and accessible city park with plenty of sunshine and activity.

Jetty Core

• A mix of uses link the Jetty Foreshore with new public areas along Harbour Drive, and street activity such as outdoor dining. • New development responds to heritage features and the coastal environment. • With a mix of housing types, more people can enjoy the lifestyle, while activated laneways enhance the character of the area.

Park Beach

• Ocean Parade is remagined as a coastal esplanade destination for Park Beach. • Park Beach Road, Arthur Street and Hogbin Drive are subtropical boulevards, where enhanced street and landscaping treatments make it easy for people to get to shops, open space and the foreshore on foot or by bike. • Development considers coastal hazards and processes and offers a mix of medium to high density housing, which can contribute to housing choice and affordability. Design and landscaping is focused on people. • Investigate changes to the intersection of Orlando Street and Ocean Parade to create a new gateway into Park Beach from the south.

Images from above: City Centre, Jetty Core, Park Beach 15 Above: Artist’s impression of subtropical meeting places Below: Artist’s impression of city heart laneway activation

16 The right mix of local services, programs and Objective 3 infrastructure to meet changing community needs Create engaging, creative will need to be provided. For example, Coffs Harbour is becoming a more intergenerational city. and inclusive spaces This will require more age-friendly built areas, libraries and community spaces, public areas that Actions are easy to access and mobility options so that older residents can access services and be part of the 3.1 Facilitate greater use of public areas community. for interim and temporary uses, arts, People of all ages and abilities need to be able to events and creative activities. access schools, sports grounds, open space, halls 3.2 Adopt a strategic approach to and creative spaces, including by walking and cycling. The co-location or shared and flexible use of creative place-making and public art under-utilised facilities can respond to the different to benefit local artists. needs of residents and encourage better use of, and 3.3 Promote the live music and access to, infrastructure and services. performance sector by identifying and protecting traditional places for live music and performance, and introducing live music and performances in other suitable places. 3.4 Promote accessibility and inclusion for all ages, abilities and cultural groups in public areas and as part of facility upgrades. Engage Local Aboriginal Land Figure 7: Coffs Harbour LGA Age Structure, 3.5 1996–2036 Councils early in planning and decision-making processes.

Coffs Harbour has one of the highest and fastest 6% 9% 9% 15% growing levels of cultural diversity in regional NSW, 9% with a community committed to welcoming visitors 10% 12% and new residents alike. 12% As a designated migration resettlement area, Coffs Harbour has a larger proportion of people speaking a language other than English at home compared to other cities on the North Coast and regional NSW.2 Migration as a driver of population growth requires broader social considerations to support cultural 62% inclusiveness and resettlement. 62% 61% 55% Investment in arts and culture can help create jobs, foster learning and attract tourism.3 Council is a principal provider of cultural facilities and physical space has been identified as a limiting factor for a number of these facilities. Events and facilities in Bellingen are also part of the cultural life of Coffs Harbour and this needs to be incorporated into 23% planning for the Regional City. High quality public 19% 18% 18% art is free to view and accessible for all and can transform how people use and enjoy public spaces. The NSW Cultural Infrastructure Plan 2025 includes 1996 2011 2016 2036 strategies and actions for Regional NSW. Relevant actions include the development of cultural infrastructure design principles, benchmarks and Working Children Aged Older Aged metrics for cultural infrastructure and a NSW Public Age (0-14) (65-75) (75+) Art Strategy. This guidance, once finalised can be (15-64) used by council in its cultural infrastructure and public realm planning. Source: ABS Census of Population and Housing 1996 –2016, DPE 2016 Population Projections

17 18 Coffs Harbour’s green cradle setting, coastline, Objective 4 bushland areas and creek system integrate with Cultivate Coffs Harbour’s urban areas and support recreation, social interaction and the city’s biodiversity, health and resilience. distinctive blue and green grid for Making places easier to walk around and supporting a healthier city opportunities for recreation and leisure will contribute to a healthier and happier city. The city’s Actions blue and green grid offers opportunities for the community to retreat and be reinvigorated, getting 4.1 Use the blue and green grid more people out and about and coming together in to create a network of diverse, parks and playgrounds or along coastal walks. inclusive, accessible, quality open Encouraging activity at street edges, retaining spaces and protected environmental sunlight access and greening and making these places safe and accessible is essential. There are a and cultural areas. range of resources available to guide planning for a 4.2 Enhance the blue and green grid healthy built environment including, NSW Health’s Healthy Urban Development Checklist, the with an initial focus on embellishment Department’s Draft Urban Design Guide and the Mid of Brelsford Park and Coffs Creek. North Coast Childhood Obesity Prevention and 4.3 Embrace opportunities for greening Management Action Plan, 2018-2023. and apply water sensitive urban Greening should be integrated into local planning design principles early in the and balanced with safety priorities. Investment in Brelsford Park as a city park and supporting the planning for new development Regional Community Gardens, Botanic Gardens and Establish and maintain a canopy of cultural-based tourism will bring people together, 4.4 support the living culture of the Gumbaynggirr trees along transport corridors and people and local food production. open spaces. The Coffs Creek is the city’s urban lungs and its 4.5 Plan new neighbourhoods with enhancement will improve biodiversity and water sufficient quantity and quality quality, promote activity and create an off-road of open space. pedestrian and cycle link between the CBD, Jetty and Park Beach that could extend to link the city’s west. 4.6 Prioritise walking and cycling Enhancements should focus on navigating to the in areas around schools, health creek walk and bringing more people to the creek’s edge with low-impact lighting, drinking stations and services and aged care facilities. seating. Respecting the cultural significance and ecosystem of the creek and its interface with the Solitary Islands Marine Park is also important. Masterplanning of Park Beach Reserve must balance these activities against the risk of coastal erosion.

Left: Coffs Harbour Jetty. Above: Artist’s impression of engagement with the blue and green grid. Move

Coffs Harbour Airport, Seen , courtesy of Coffs Harbour City Council

20 Goal: A city of connected communities and a gateway to the wider region 22 Coffs Harbour Draft Regional City Action Plan 2036 Objective 5 Reimagine the city’s spine Collaboration opportunity 2 to reunite east and west Council, in partnership with Actions Transport for NSW, and other stakeholders will develop a City 5.1 Renew the post-bypass City Spine to Spine Renewal Strategy to maximise promote a place and people opportunities from the Coffs focussed streetscape with a greater Harbour bypass project by: range of uses, street level activity and amenity and integrated transit, • creating a sense of arrival and pedestrian and place through entry statements, cycling options. public art, creative place-making and streetscaping that reinforces 5.2 Integrate the Coffs Harbour bypass the city’s popularity as a visitor route with the urban area by securing destination and regional hub access to existing and proposed release areas and mitigating noise • greening the corridor to link with and visual impacts. the city’s blue and green grid

The Pacific Highway has shaped Coffs Harbour’s • integrating public transport, identity and emergence as a city. The rise of car use and road upgrades after the 1950s saw the CBD pedestrian and cycling options shift to its current location to take advantage of with an emphasis on east-west activity on the route. Since then, transport and links freight demand between Brisbane and Sydney have grown exponentially and has divided the city’s • allowing for enhancements in business and service heart from east to west. mobility technologies The relocation of the Pacific Highway presents a transformative opportunity for the city that can see • reinforcing the corridor as an the corridor reimagined from an interstate freight and transport link to a place focused city spine. economic spine that hosts diverse economic land use and A renewed city spine can offer a sense of arrival and welcoming through entry statements that showcase connects the city’s employment public art and creativity and an engaged areas streetscape that promotes street level activity and offers green links to the city’s wider blue and green grid. Opportunities for mixed use renewal can be Timing: Short to Medium, provided along the corridor in buildings that linked to Coffs Harbour Bypass showcase design character that the community can planning and delivery. be proud of. Links to communities in the city’s north and south can be redefined and east and west reunited to forge a city built on connected places where integrated transit, pedestrian and cycling options leverage the latest in mobility technology. A city spine renewal strategy will be required to map and leverage these opportunities once the bypass is approved and a final design confirmed. The proposed bypass route is located within the city’s green frame, on the fringe of the urban area and transects or borders areas identified for future residential and employment development at North Boambee Valley and West and North Coffs Harbour. Balancing this proximity with effective integration from an amenity and accessibility perspective will be critical as the bypass is designed and delivered. New east-west gateways into the city should also reinforce a sense of arrival and promote ease of access once the bypass has been completed.

Left: Artist’s impression of reimagined city spine

23 Gallows Beach

24 Objective 6 Create a modern, place-based Collaboration opportunity 3 transport network to connect the Council, in partnership with Coffs Coast’s communities Transport for NSW and other stakeholders will develop a future Actions transport plan for the Coffs Harbour 6.1 Integrate land use planning with LGA by: transport service planning. • implementing the outcomes of 6.2 Plan for easy and safe pedestrian the Regional NSW Services and movement in activity nodes. Infrastructure Plan by applying 6.3 Create a legible, connected and the movement and place accessible network of pedestrian and framework cycling paths and facilities. • developing a long-term vision to guide investments in transport Plan for accessible and convenient 6.4 infrastructure that improves public transport stops and liveability and road safety and interchanges that integrate with the expands the public and active active transport network. transport network 6.5 Include new development and • establishing an active transport employment areas in future network by identifying missing contracts for the bus service links, initiatives for behavioural network. change and targeting funding program guidelines for active Understanding the populations movement patterns when making transport decisions can improve transport connectivity, public transport, and walking and • investigating Coffs Creek as a cycling opportunities. potential walking and cycling Transport for NSW’s Future Transport 2056 transport link between western establishes a movement and place framework that residential areas, the city and the can balance safe, efficient and reliable journeys for people and freight with enhanced liveability and ocean amenity of places. • identifying travel demand Enhancing pedestrian amenity and increasing active management policies and tools and public transport use will reduce demand on the to support car sharing and to road network and encourage more sustainable and assist workers and employers to healthier trips. Prioritising active and public better manage travel demand transport capacity between the city’s key activity nodes – the City Centre, Jetty and Park Beach, will • adopting the strategies and service a large volume of visitors, residents and actions of the Future Transport commuters. As the city’s population gets older, Technology Roadmap transport facilities will require access for all ages and abilities as well as seating and shade. The reach and responsiveness of public transport Timing: Short services will need to be enhanced. New development in and around activity nodes will increase the population densities needed to support the viability of more regular public transport services. Considering the scope for reduced parking requirements in renewal areas can also encourage public and active transport use. Emerging transport technologies offer compelling alternatives to private car use that can make better use of transport investments to connect communities, transform service delivery and enhance the customer experience. Coffs Harbour is already engaging with emerging transport technologies by hosting the first regional trial of automated vehicles.

25 Coffs Harbour Airport is one of the largest in Objective 7 regional NSW, offering flights to Sydney, Expand the role of Coffs Harbour and Brisbane and acting as a regional gateway for business, tourism and personal travel, as well as Airport as a transport gateway high-value freight. The airport also has capacity for international freight exports to support agricultural Actions production and growing agribusiness links. 7.1 Apply zoning and development Investments in runway apron expansion works and controls to develop the airport terminal upgrades were completed in late 2017 to create an additional 25 per cent of floor space, and precinct as a regional gateway. improved passenger facilities and amenities. 7.2 Provide efficient access for The vacant lands adjoining the airport can be better passengers and freight, and land for utilised. Employment lands near airports typically aviation-related activities, as the attract supporting industry, with regional and airport grows. remote airports generating about 25 per cent of revenue from non-aeronautical sources.4 7.3 Use development in the airport Employment uses that support the airport’s gateway precinct to boost tourism and role and offer new local jobs must be balanced against operational needs. agriculture and integrate it with the South Coffs Harbour area. Improving public transport access for visitors and links between the airport and the Jetty precinct will strengthen the area as a tourist and night-time economy destination. Current load restrictions along Hogbin Drive limit freight transport capacity; supporting freight accessibility can support the productivity of the airport gateway precinct.

Health Campus

Jetty Precinct Airport Education Gateway Campus Employment Precinct

26 Safe and efficient transport corridors and last-mile Objective 8 delivery options will influence competitiveness and Harness connectivity across contribute to the State and national freight task. The efficiency of accessing markets and receiving goods the subregion influences the competitiveness of doing business from and within the subregion. This includes the Actions location of freight transport facilities and using functioning connections and road networks to 8.1 Recognise Grafton’s role as a freight efficiently move goods and services. and logistics hub in local planning The Coffs Harbour bypass will enhance the freight across Coffs Harbour and the efficiency and travel safety gains provided by the Clarence Valley. Pacific Highway upgrade to date while creating new networks between Coffs Harbour, its wider region 8.2 Improve east-west connectivity via and global markets. Coffs Harbour is unlikely to have the , Coramba Road sufficient available land to support freight and the . distribution activities, whereas Grafton’s proximity to road and rail links including the Pacific Highway, Coffs Harbour’s success as a regional city will align North Coast Rail Line, Gwydir Highway and with the success of its wider region. As the most offer advantages for freight central of the North Coast’s regional cities, Coffs transport and logistics. Harbour performs an important service role to East-west connections like the Waterfall Way will surrounding communities and can leverage growing link productive growing areas, hinterland agritourism connectivity with both Sydney and Brisbane. and rural communities with the city. Maximising Strategic infrastructure investments can help to these connections will help build new opportunities unlock these opportunities. for these areas and Coffs Harbour to attract new Future Transport 2056 emphasises the focus on a economic development. The Waterfall Way ‘hub and spoke’ network model radiating out from traverses the World-Heritage listed Dorrigo National regional cities and centres to capitalise on the role Park and idyllic hinterland landscapes and is a that regional cities and centres play as hubs for tourism asset for the Coffs Coast. Enhancements to employment and services such as retail, health, the Waterfall Way to support this role will be education and cultural activities. Transport for NSW determined by Transport for NSW. will develop a regional transport plan for the North Coast that will provide further local context to Future Transport 2056 and the Regional NSW Services and Infrastructure Plan by offering strategic guidance for the region’s transport network that will inform investment.

Left: Artist’s impression of gateway employment precinct at the Airport Below: Pacific Highway

27 Play

Coffs Harbour Skate Park

28 Goal: A playful city with opportunities to be active, inspired and competitive Objective 9 Celebrate the Jetty Precinct as Collaboration opportunity 4 Coffs Harbour’s premier Property NSW and Council will harbourside destination continue to work with stakeholders and the community to develop and Actions refine a concept plan for the Jetty 9.1 Strengthen the precinct’s identity as Precinct that supports the an outstanding recreation and community vision, is financially tourism destination through viable and is able to be enhanced public facilities, amenity, implemented by: place activation and environmental • enhancing public facilities quality. and amenity 9.2 Protect the operational access and • determining opportunities for facility needs of the marina and appropriately scaled and located international port. mixed use development 9.3 Improve connectivity and character • establishing and maintaining links with the Jetty Precinct to landscape features ahead of built support mixed use development, form active frontages to streets, outdoor • enhancing the environmental dining and enhanced heritage quality, sustainability and long- character. term access of open space in Coffs Harbour’s timber jetty is an icon of the city’s relation to coastal processes shipping heritage and a popular place fish, watch • incorporating and reaffirming seabirds, marine life, fishing boats, paddlers and the foreshore’s heritage story and cruising yachts. It is the place where people come to celebrating Gumbaynggirr explore along boardwalks, the parklands, beaches, local markets and hospitality. cultural meaning The fishing fleet and boats go about their daily routine, while people dine at cafes and restaurants Timing: Short or snack on fish and chips. People trek along the breakwall to Giidany Miirlarl-Muttonbird Island where they can learn about the Island’s significance to the Gumbaynggirr people and enjoy 360-degree views of the ocean, islands, marina and mountains. The Jetty Precinct has significant potential for renewal, nurturing and enlivening these experiences will be central to creating an iconic destination. The renewed Jetty Precinct will be a harbourside playground and marina, with a range of outdoor dining, active street frontages and art displays. Community engagement in relation to the appropriate land use mix for the Jetty Precinct suggests there is scope for appropriately scaled mixed uses in some areas of the Precinct. This could activate areas of the Precinct, improve parking and the links to the wider Jetty area, including the Jetty Core. As the site of the original township of Coffs Harbour, the Jetty Core has strong historical and contemporary links to the Jetty Precinct. Investing in the Jetty Core, enhancing the gateway entry to the foreshore at Jordan’s Esplanade and exploring opportunities for greater connectivity across the railway, will improve pedestrian and transport mobility and the character of both the Jetty Core and Jetty Precinct.

30 Coffs Harbour Draft Regional City Action Plan 2036 Coffs Harbour Jetty

31 The city’s large tourism resorts are key infrastructure Objective 10 for conferences; a target area for growth. Showcase Coffs Harbour’s Destination NSW’s Regional Conferencing Unit tourism and visitor experiences supports the annual Waste Conference, the largest in the industry. Actions Ageing tourism infrastructure and limited independent conference facilities have been 10.1 Align local plans with relevant identified as a constraint on further growth of the directions of the city’s tourism and conferencing sector. The Regional Tourism Product event strategic plans. Development Program and the development of local incentives can support investment in new facilities. 10.2 Support the capacity of the event Ongoing support will target opportunities, identify and tourism facility network with capabilities and promote the city’s conferencing appropriate infrastructure and market. supporting uses and mitigate land The Coffs Coast Events Strategy 2020 aims to use conflict. attract new and repeat visitors to Coffs Harbour, while also providing a vibrant backdrop of activity, 10.3 Promote culturally appropriate entertainment, education and well-being for Aboriginal tourism opportunities. residents of the broader Coffs Coast. The city has a network of event spaces and public event capacity 10.4 Incorporate transport planning into at many locations including the Coffs Harbour local plans to serve the transport Showground, Regional Botanic Gardens and access needs of tourists. International Stadium. Promoting and securing capacity at these venues is key to the Events 10.5 Promote boutique commercial, Strategy. tourist and recreation activities in rural landscape areas where they do not conflict with primary production. The Gumbaynggirr people have There is strong competition for tourism market share occupied the from in regional Australia, and Coffs Harbour will need to Nambucca to the Clarence River and build on its reputation as a visitor destination to west to the Great Dividing Range since remain competitive. the Yuludarla or the Dreaming. Drawn The Coffs Coast Tourism Strategic Plan 2020 to the area for its climate and was developed by the Destination Coffs Coast abundant resources, they formed one Committee for the Coffs Harbour and Bellingen of the largest coastal Aboriginal Shires. Opportunities for more visitor nations in NSW and became known as accommodation options, enhancing transport ‘sharing people’ because of their connections and packages of events and activities openness to sharing resources.5 exist. Larger and more frequent events and festivals Gumbaynggirr people continue this as well as support for the night-time economy and culture by showcasing their cultural live music can also attract more tourists. and spiritual connection to ancestral There is also scope to better support cultural, country. nature-based and agritourism. The Gumbaynggirr have a rich cultural heritage. Consultation with local Aboriginal people could help to celebrate and recognise this rich cultural heritage, which in turn Coffs Harbour Tourism impact 2017 could provide opportunities to economically empower local Aboriginal communities. Destination NSW’s Aboriginal Tourism Action Plan 2017–2020 aims to support these opportunities. Support is also Over available through the NSW Aboriginal Tour Operators Council (NATOC), a peer-to-peer 1.6M program to support Aboriginal tour operators. Visitors Spending The green rolling hills, fertile farmlands and historic towns of hinterland areas like the Orara Valley offer a scenic and cultural contrast to the buzz of the city. $525M Boutique commercial, tourist and recreation In the Local activities that do not conflict with primary Economy production could diversify the rural economy.

Source: Tourism Research Australia, Local Government Area Profiles, 2017

32 Coffs Harbour Draft Regional City Action Plan 2036

e g n a

R

g

n

i

d

i

v

i

D

t

a

e

r

G

Figure 8: Coffs Harbour City - Recreation Assets

City Action Plan Environmental Sports/Leisure Community Garden Area

Regional Sports Hub Parks and Reserves Lookout Aquatic Centre

Railway Train Station Regional Playground Stadium

Main road Marina Foreshore Greening

Waterway Patrolled Beach Hiking/Walking Tourism

33 Coffs Harbour International Stadium

34 Coffs Harbour Draft Regional City Action Plan 2036 Coffs Harbour’s network of indoor and outdoor Objective 11 sporting facilities as well as natural stages for surf, Distinguish Coffs Harbour as a triathlons and boating events allow spectators and competitors to be part of many regional, state, centre of sporting excellence national and international competitions. Actions The International Stadium in South Coffs Harbour hosts around 120–140 event days a year, attracting 11.1 Consider the changing needs of the 15,000– 20,000 participants and similar spectator 6 community and sports sector, numbers. The stadium hosts elite-level matches for the A-League, NRL, NFL, Women’s Ashes Series and participation demand for sports and FIA World Rally. Significant upgrades will provide the facility requirements and additional seating and technology improvements for standards as indicated by the spectators; upgraded accessibility, amenities, governing body for each sport in catering outlets and parking; and better pedestrian open space and facility planning. integration. The stadium is the largest facility of its kind on the 11.2 Identify the scope for shared use of North Coast and services a wide area. There are sport and recreation facilities to associated opportunities for allied sports science increase community access and industries to establish in the stadium area and enhance sustainability and delivery capacity to support sports tourism. The Office of Sport has developed the draft North Coast Sport efficiencies. and Recreation Plan which recognises Coffs Harbour 11.3 Plan for supporting infrastructure at as a Regional Sporting Hub. South Coffs Harbour already supports many of the facilities identified by new active recreation spaces, such as the Plan as essential to hub development, and lighting, wayfinding and amenities. existing synergies can be leveraged. 11.4 Apply facility design that considers Community sports infrastructure, in addition to universal, inclusive and Safer-By- supporting physical activity, offer opportunities for Design principles to recreation employment, volunteering, community pride and connectedness. Council’s Open Space Strategy and facilities. Coffs Harbour Sports Facility Plan 2016 prioritises community sporting facilities. Future planning must align the objectives of Council and the sport sector, while increasing participation, contributing to economic growth and delivering sustainable assets that are well used and designed for all.

Collaboration opportunity 5 Council, in conjunction with Office of Sport and other stakeholders, will deliver a regional sporting hub at South Coffs Harbour by: • investigating the feasibility and establishment of a regional sports science hub or elite sports science facility around the stadium at South Coffs Harbour • exploring opportunities for group and tourist accommodation in the precinct to support the stadium and sports-science hub

Timing: Medium

35 Work

Coffs Harbour Justice Precinct

36 Goal: A skilled and innovative city blending work-life balance and subregional cooperation y tt e J d n a e tr n e C y it C To

To Sawtell an d To orm in a

Figure 9: South Coffs Enterprise Area

Gateway Future Connectivity Environmental Education Precinct Employment Precinct

Existing Urban Railway Parks and Reserves Sports Fields Release Area

Investigation Area - Main road Coffs Harbour Airport Stadium Employment Land

Pedestrian/Cycleway Isles Drive Employment Land Health Precinct Access Industrial Park

Existing Urban Regional Waste Waterway School Release Area Facility

38 Coffs Harbour Draft Regional City Action Plan 2036 Objective 12 Grow South Coffs Harbour as Collaboration opportunity 6 an integrated enterprise area Council, in conjunction with Actions Southern Cross University, University of NSW, NSW Health and 12.1 Improve precinct character by the Department of Education will establishing a clearly defined centre, collaborate to grow South Coffs greater housing mix and integration Harbour as an integrated enterprise of public areas and open space. area by: 12.2 Secure expansion and innovation • supporting shared use in service capacity of employment anchors. and facility planning 12.3 Enhance internal and external • reviewing the location and scale connectivity. of a neighbourhood centre to create a more dynamic heart South Coffs Harbour hosts a cluster of economic and employment anchors and health, education, • offering a mix of land uses and aviation and sporting facilities. Each anchor has diversity of housing, including capacity to grow and expand with public and private medium density housing options investment. Where planned effectively, around a neighbourhood centre, the economic productivity of clusters like those at South Coffs Harbour can increase substantially over seniors housing, affordable key time as independent institutions act as ‘anchors’ for worker housing and student agglomerating and supporting uses and generate accommodation economies of scale. • improving connections within the Fostering the growth of South Coffs Harbour as an precinct and considering integrated enterprise area will generate enduring career opportunities and higher paid jobs and drive opportunities from the Coffs high-value and high skill employment opportunities. bypass To achieve this, the area will need a more clearly • considering opportunities for defined centre and better physical connections night-time economy and events between anchors. that activate the precinct and Opportunities will be maximised by appropriate offer activities for South Coffs internal and surrounding land uses, connectivity, student and key worker housing, future expansion residents opportunities, effective land use interface and local • planning for integrated public infrastructure needs including walking and cycling areas, facilities and open space paths and public domain improvements. The precinct will be attractive for residents, workers and visitors. • planning for safe places to walk Collaborative governance arrangements will facilitate with improved lighting growth and development of the enterprise area. Timing: Medium

Coffs Harbour Hospital

39 South Coffs Harbour Employment Anchors

Health Education

Health care and social assistance is the highest value Education employs around 2,700 people in Coffs industry and employment sector in Coffs Harbour. Harbour with an industry value add of $209.8 Coffs Harbour Hospital is the major referral hospital million. Southern Cross University is the primary for the Coffs Network of the Mid North Coast Local anchor of the city’s education precinct and supports Health District with specialist medical and surgical technology-based business development and services for the Coffs Harbour, Bellingen and growth at the Coffs Harbour Innovation Centre. The Nambucca LGAs. The hospital site also supports campus also accommodates North Coast university teaching facilities and a separate private TAFE and Coffs Harbour Senior School. There are medical centre.4 strong links between health and sport anchors and the education campus will soon accommodate a The NSW Government has committed $194 million new allied health facility.4 to enhance the hospital. Consistent take-up of floor space suggests a market for new medical, specialist Tertiary education providers are rethinking their and allied health uses. Increases in building height land use requirements, with students learning and density may be needed and medium or long- outside traditional lecture theatres. Future planning term expansion options should be investigated, of the education precinct can build on existing including increased development densities, strengths and services and respond to these needs underground car parks, expansion to the north, and by offering a broader range of supporting uses such connections across Newports Creek or expansion to as startups, events or community uses. the B5 zoned land west of the Pacific Highway. Development viability and environmental constraints including flooding should be considered. Aviation Coffs Harbour Airport is a strategic gateway asset Sport that can better fulfil its role as a regional gateway for business, tourism and personal travel The regional sports fields and international stadium (see Objective 7). at the centre of the precinct along Stadium Drive, opposite the South Coffs residential urban release area, must be integrated with wider planning for the precinct (see Objective 11).

Coffs Harbour Education Campus

40 The availability of industrial land provides capacity Objective 13 for new job opportunities, new industries and the Optimise employment land expansion of existing operations. The Coffs Harbour LGA has limited remaining employment land and delivery across the city and constrained capacity to cater for extensive new subregion areas of additional stock. The capacity of existing employment land will be Actions increased by better defining the role and mix of employment areas and providing scope for additional 13.1 Characterise employment areas in building height under local plans. The yield of local plans to reflect their strategic available employment land will be limited by the need employment role. for infrastructure servicing, mitigating and managing hazards, and protecting environmental values. 13.2 Enhance employment land stock by Investigation areas are identified at North Boambee restricting encroachment of non- Valley and West Woolgoolga; however, these sites compatible uses and identifying are not proposed for release in the short term and infrastructure needs including face servicing and environmental constraints that suitable freight and transport access. may affect development yield and viability. Lands adjoining Coffs Harbour Airport could offer space 13.3 Coordinate subregional employment for jobs, subject to an appropriate local planning land delivery across the Coffs framework. Harbour, Bellingen, Nambucca and is facing similar constraints, whereas Clarence Valley LGAs to secure the Nambucca and Clarence Valley LGAs are better sufficient employment land supply. positioned to cater for larger floorplate industrial uses. Nambucca LGA has an established manufacturing 13.4 Maximise the competitive and natural sector and zoned employment land at Valla is being advantages of employment precincts developed by Council, with ready freight access to within each LGA. the Pacific Highway and within 30 minutes of Coffs Harbour. Clarence Valley LGA also has large areas of land for employment uses at South Grafton, 60 minutes from Coffs Harbour. Grafton’s proximity to road and rail links including the Pacific Highway, North Coast Rail Line, Gwydir Highway and Summerland Way offer advantages for freight transport and logistics.

Figure 10: Employment land availability, 2016-17

Undeveloped portion 23% Developed portion

121 ha. 17%

71 ha. 10% 35.6 ha. 10% 29.6 ha.

51%

82 ha. 82% 11 ha. 49 ha. 400.3 ha. 343.9 ha. 79.3 ha. 303.8 ha. 275.6 ha. Clarence Grafton Nambucca West Valla Coffs Harbour Coffs Harbour Valley LGA LGA LGA City CLARENCE VALLEY NAMBUCCA COFFS HARBOUR

Source: DPE 2019, North Coast Housing and Land Monitor

41 As a city that was built against a backdrop of Objective 14 bananas, Coffs Harbour’s economy continues to be Nurture the Coffs Coast food bowl supported by agriculture. The agri-food economy can be extended through value chains to include Actions packagers, distributors, processors, retailers, restaurants and food outlets. 14.1 Promote the Coffs Coast Food Bowl Agribusiness is entering a technological and logistics brand and expand the Mid North Coast boom, with integrated intensive farming methods Food Forum to showcase regional using blockchains, Internet of Things, artificial produce and leverage education and intelligence and robotics. These technologies are industry links to grow agri-tech. exciting for agribusiness and for Coffs Harbour’s suppliers who can compete in this space. Current 14.2 Manage the interface between logistics connections between Brisbane, Newcastle agricultural production areas and and Sydney means products from this area can be produced, packaged then moved to markets by air other land uses by adopting and road. provisions in local plans that avoid A Coffs Coast Food Bowl brand can be an economic conflicts with residential, rural driver for the wider region. Export produce in Coffs residential and sensitive Harbour is focussed on fruit and vegetables and environmental areas. seafood harvesting. The wider subregion offers a supplementary range of produce, including dairy, 14.3 Develop commercial, tourist and beef and nuts, that can be part of this brand and recreation activities in locations that diversify the sector. complement and promote the A strategic approach is required to avoid land use agricultural sector. compatibility issues, protect the long-term viability of production areas and expand rural sectors and communities. The blueberry harvest coincides with Coffs Harbour LGA blueberry production seasonal tourism and increases temporary populations – placing pressure on housing and accommodation supply. Opportunities for short- term workers’ housing may be a viable alternative to 92% expanding permanent housing stock. The Rural of NSW’s Blueberry Lands Review component of Council’s wider growth Production management strategy will consider these issues in consultation with the community and stakeholders. 70% of local Agricultural Source: Coffs Harbour City Council, 2017, Coffs production Harbour Economic Development Strategy 2017-2022

42 opportunities that activate streets and bring more Objective 15 amenity and mixed uses will support retail areas by Foster the city’s innovation diversifying retail-focused centres without undermining the strength of the city centre. ecosystem through life-long The city’s creative sector may be another area learning and promote new where local specialisation can drive new job economy jobs opportunities. Support for creative enterprises and opportunities for cultural expression will expand arts and cultural institutions and encourage audience Actions and artist participation. Under-utilised mixed-use 15.1 Enable and promote a greater range areas and ground-level commercial should be of employment-generating uses in considered for creative industries and cultural enterprise. Creating greater opportunities for employment and business areas and creative industries to collaborate with health and provide local incentives that support education can also facilitate innovation. innovation in target sectors. 15.2 Promote a greater diversity of uses in retail centres, including housing and Education technology pioneers recreation to provide for changing retail activities. Coffs Harbour-based IT company Janison is a new-economy success story. 15.3 Promote local start-ups and Founded in 1998 with the vision of taking the entrepreneurs through business and delivery of education into the future and investment support tools and skill beyond, today, Janison are an award winning, industry leader recognised for bold development. and pioneering solutions. The company listed on the Australian Stock Exchange in A changing and growing regional city needs to 2017 and ranks among the Australian provide capacity for innovation, adaptability and Financial Review’s Top 100 Most Innovative resilience in preparing for future needs. New Companies in Australia and . economy businesses support productivity and require an innovation ecosystem to drive economic Janison’s primary office is located in Coffs development. Wider societal shifts will also influence Harbour, where early access to the national the needs of industry, requiring a more agile broadband rollout and work-life balance approach to innovation that meets the needs of the allowed it to attract and nurture talent and new economy. pursue innovative solutions. The city’s fibre-to-the-premises communications Delivering digital learning and online infrastructure provides an advantage for new assessment solutions for global corporations, economy sector development. Access to the governments and education bodies in more National Broadband Network (NBN) has than 100 countries, Janison are at the encouraged a shift towards remote working and forefront of using the latest technology to business operations that can interact with national revolutionise learning. This includes, closing and international markets. Further support for the digital divide via solutions to deliver emerging entrepreneurialism will draw on links with online exams uninterrupted in locations education to develop an entrepreneurial culture, across Australia and the world with poor or digital or otherwise. zero internet connectivity and by partnering with Microsoft and Google to harness the Coffs Harbour offers a wide-range of education next boundary-breaking solution to services spanning pre-school through to tertiary transform learning for millions of people. options. These facilities are critical for youth retention and the promotion of life-long learning This year, Janison was praised for a world- that can support productivity and innovation. first by successfully delivering NAPLAN Online to more than 200,000 students The importance of retaining young people in the city across Australia. This figure will more than and facilitating career pathways or education in double next year and will rise to almost one digital technologies for young people requires million students by 2020. Internationally, the partnerships between the NSW Government and company’s work for the British Council has Council to give young people the knowledge and seen their assessment solution deliver skills to link with training and job opportunities. life-changing English language proficiency Leveraging local strengths and responding to exams in remote regions in Nepal, India and emerging trends in established sectors will support South America. a more dynamic economy. Changing consumer behaviours and technologies are shifting retailing preferences and may influence land use needs. The retail sector is the city’s second largest employer and services a wide catchment. Redevelopment

Fresh produce on display at local market. 43 Live

Coffs Harbour

44 Goal: A regional exemplar of coastal, cosmopolitan living set within the green embrace of the Great Dividing Range grid can support greater housing choice. Guiding Objective 16 objectives for the growth of these areas should pair Deliver a compact city that renewal with place-specific outcomes. Local plans can support renewal objectives by exploring responds to Coffs Harbour’s minimum density targets, site consolidation and unique green cradle setting and housing diversity mechanisms. offer housing choice Offering greater housing choice in existing areas will also cater for shifting housing demand as the population grows, people’s lifestyle needs and Actions budgets change, and the type of households change 16.1 Promote a sustainable growth to include more young families, older people and footprint and enhance place-specific singles. character and design outcomes. The following areas should be considered for low-rise medium density housing opportunities that 16.2 Implement incentives to support maintain the scale and character of neighbourhoods: infill development. • transitional areas between urban renewal 16.3 Promote low-rise medium density precincts and existing neighbourhoods; housing opportunities in areas with • land near local centres or connected by walking and cycling links; access to services and public open space. • lower density areas undergoing replacement of older housing stock; The coastal escarpment provides a distinct green • areas of social housing that could be renewed cradle that offers a visual connection to nature or and with good access to services, transport and agricultural pursuits. This unique geography requires jobs, and a careful approach to growth planning that balances • areas with access to public open space. protection of biodiversity, the best use of resources and delivery of a wider range of housing options A range of tenures, price points, rental housing for with the creation of places that foster a strong local lower-income households and affordable and social identity. housing is equally important. Housing diversity and choice will improve affordability and help to meet Remaining land available for residential development demographic and household changes. is diminishing and new areas for housing are limited by the city’s natural frame. This requires renewal of Council can explore local incentives for affordable existing areas to cater for new housing, creating a and more diverse housing including bonus more compact urban form. provisions or concessions in local plans and bedroom mix requirements. Landcom is also Priority urban renewal areas have been identified exploring opportunities for additional affordable (Figure 12) where access to existing infrastructure, housing stock. active and public transport and the blue and green

The Summit, North Coffs Harbour

46 Outside the Plan footprint, additional releases at the Objective 17 fringe of Woolgoolga and a new settlement at Bonville Coordinate infrastructure for new can provide longer-term greenfield opportunities. housing release across the Coffs Lifestyle housing options in adjoining LGAs complement the city’s housing offering, are within Coast commuting distance and are, in some cases, more affordable. Journey to work data shows that the Actions relationship between Coffs Harbour, Bellingen and Nambucca is particularly strong. Other release areas 17.1 Progress North Boambee Valley as a in adjoining LGAs at South Urunga and Valla will priority housing release area through supplement greenfield housing supply, but coordinating infrastructure delivery. infrastructure servicing capacity is a constraint. 17.2 Accelerate new housing in the Coffs Harbour, Bellingen and Nambucca Figure 11: LGAs by identifying the need for Estimated residential land availability*, 2016-17 infrastructure investment. Coffs Harbour The city’s growing and changing population is expected to generate the need for additional dwellings by 2036. As the city becomes more 9% compact, adequate land and greenfield options will 2783 ha. 266 ha. still be needed to offer housing choice and to influence housing affordability. Coordinated Coffs Harbour LGA investment in servicing urban release and investigation areas will support new housing supply in proximity to the city. 6% Council is reviewing the Coffs Harbour Local Growth 1699 ha. 108 ha. Management Strategy to identify adequate land capacity. Investigation areas for future residential Coffs Harbour City development have been identified at West and North Coffs Harbour. These areas are an extension Undeveloped portion Developed portion to existing urban areas and can leverage proximity to services, infrastructure and jobs. *These totals do not include land recently rezoned North Boambee Valley is the city’s largest urban for residential purposes at North Boambee Valley release area and has the capacity to provide at least (approximately 94 hectares). The yield of this land 10 per cent of the LGA’s projected housing needs to will be further limited by the need to provide for 2036. This is a priority housing release area and will infrastructure servicing, mitigate and manage need further infrastructure planning and delivery to hazards and protect environmental values. Source: accelerate supply. DPE 2019, North Coast Housing and Land Monitor West Coffs Harbour

47 City centre and surrounds • Investigate increased development capacity that retains amenity and increases all-hour 1 activity within the city centre to foster its growth as a live-work-play heart. • Implement strategies to realise planned capacity outside the city centre. • Foster stronger engagement with the CBD and links to the Coffs Creek.

Park Beach • Redefine Ocean Parade as a mixed-use activity hub. 2 • Investigate increasing development capacity alongside the creation of subtropical avenues. • Foster stronger legibility and connectivity throughout the precinct. • Respond to emerging coastal and flooding hazards.

Jetty • Enhance the Jetty Core as a mixed-use centre. 3 • Implement strategies to realise existing zoned capacity. • Enhance local character and sense of place by leveraging the area’s existing street pattern and laneway network, promoting view sharing and engaging with the area’s historic features and coastal character.

South and North Coffs release areas • Investigate suitability for low-rise medium density housing. 4 • Investigate student, key worker and aged accommodation in the South Coffs release area to support the precinct’s enterprise and sporting function.

North Boambee Valley • Progress as a priority housing release area. 5 • Integrate with adjoining urban area. • Support infrastructure delivery for flood storage and road access. • Investigate scope for higher development yields.

West and North Coffs Harbour investigation areas 6 • Plan for greenfield housing options. • Clarify servicing feasibility. • Integrate with adjoining urban area.

48 Coffs Harbour Draft Regional City Action Plan 2036

e g n a

R

g

n

i 4 d 6 i

v

i

D 2

t 1 5

a

e 3

r

G

4

Figure 12: Coffs Harbour City - Urban renewal and release areas

City Action Plan Waterway Urban Renewal Education Precinct Area

Existing Urban Future Connectivity Environmental Health Precinct Release Area

Investigation Area - Railway Parks and reserves Justice Precinct Urban Release

Priority Housing Main road Employment Land Train Station Release Area

Investigation Area - Coffs Harbour Commercial Marina Employment Land Airport

49 Coffs Harbour is prone to natural hazards, including Objective 18 bushfires, coastal erosion, rising sea levels, storms, Strengthen resilience to natural floods, acid sulfate soils and landslips. Climate change may worsen some of these hazards. Within hazards and climate change built-up urban areas, risk-responsive land use zoning and planning controls can minimise exposure and Actions improve the built environment’s resilience to natural hazards and climate change. 18.1 Employ risk-responsive land use controls to avoid new development The city’s geography and subtropical climate means that flooding and coastal hazards are an in high-risk areas and build local essential consideration for future growth. Council resilience. has invested in a flood mitigation programme to help reduce the effects of flash flooding in the city. 18.2 Mitigate natural hazards and The Coffs Harbour Coastal Zone Management Plan incorporate resilience measures with has been certified and gazetted by the NSW triple bottom line benefits into Environment Minister and will integrate with SEPP coastal development. (Coastal Management) 2018 to manage coastal hazards. Consider sea level rise, flooding and 18.3 Incorporation of evacuation planning into strategic coastal hazards when planning for land use planning and development controls will infrastructure and incorporate minimise risk to life, while reducing the burden on resilient design and materials to emergency management personnel during and reduce reconstruction and recovery following natural hazard events, including floods. Future planning will take account of appropriate costs. evacuation strategies where practicable. 18.4 Incorporate evacuation The city’s blue and green grid will also build considerations to manage risks in resilience to natural hazards by complementing existing developed areas. other natural hazard policies for flooding, storm surge, coastal erosion and sea-level rise. The grid contains natural vegetation susceptible to bushfire that will be managed to avoid encroachment by urban development. Thermal and energy-efficient buildings, greenways and stormwater re-use should be incorporated into the design of developments and subdivisions. Land that is prone to hazards should not be developed unless the hazards can be managed appropriately.

North Wall Beach, Coffs Harbour

50 Additional policy measures can be taken to Objective 19 transition towards a carbon neutral future including Strive for a carbon neutral future the investigation of local incentives for green buildings, supporting small-scale renewable energy and enhance local biodiversity generation measures into the design of new development and providing employment lands for Actions research and development opportunities. 19.1 Contribute to NSW Government The planning and design of new developments must aspirational target of net zero support the sustainable and effective collection and management of waste, including new approaches emissions by 2050. for re-using waste materials and resources within a 19.2 Protect waste recycling and circular economy. The Coffs Coast Resource Recovery Facility has been a leader in promoting management facilities and promote re-use of organic waste and recycling to reduce innovative solutions to reduce the landfill volumes. The facility services the Coffs volume of waste and reduce waste Harbour, Bellingen and Nambucca LGAs and is transport requirements. approaching capacity. A new site will be identified through existing partnership arrangements. Protect scenic and cultural 19.3 Buildings can be more energy efficient and reduce landscapes. costs for owners. Sustainable design must extend Enhance local biodiversity and green beyond individual buildings and low-carbon 19.4 initiatives should apply to wider precincts. assets across the city and sustainably manage the edge effects of urban In urban areas, selected tree species and understorey plants for parks and street planting can development. support wildlife movements and connections between habitat areas. Remnant vegetation should The NSW Government’s Climate Change Policy be incorporated into the planning and design of Framework has set a target for NSW to achieve neighbourhoods; for example, in parks, school net-zero emissions by 2050. This Plan will support grounds and as street trees. Pockets of vegetation this target by integrating land within urban areas provide habitat, help cool the use and transport planning and limiting urban environment and support cleaner waterways and air. sprawl. Coffs Harbour’s annual Sustainable Living Festival and Waste Conference promotes The Biodiversity Conservation Act 2016 provides a sustainable living and waste reduction. framework and tools to avoid, minimise and offset impacts on biodiversity through the planning and development assessment process. Tools to protect biodiversity on private land include biodiversity stewardship agreements, conservation agreements and wildlife refuge agreements.

City of Hope, sustainable housing, Coffs Harbour

51 Glossary

Agri-tech Local plans

Technology used in agriculture, horticulture, and Statutory and non-statutory plans prepared by aquaculture to improve yields, efficiency and council for a local government area to guide profitability. Agri-tech can be products, services or planning decisions by local councils. Through the applications derived from agriculture that improve use of land zoning and other development controls, various input/output processes. a local plan is typically the main mechanism for determining the type and amount of development which can occur on each parcel of land in NSW. Employment lands Local plans are the main planning tool that shapes Land zoned for industrial or similar purposes (i.e. the future of communities and ensures local land zoned B5 Business Development or B7 development is appropriate. Business Park in planning instruments). These are generally lower density employment areas Local incentives containing concentrations of businesses involved in manufacturing; transport and warehousing; service The financial and planning incentives offered by and repair trades and industries; integrated local government to support the delivery of target enterprises with a mix of administration, production, development outcomes. warehousing, research and development; and urban services and utilities. Mixed use centres Greenfield housing Centres that facilitate a mixture of commercial, retail, residential and other land uses based on A new housing development area that has not been market demand and investment confidence rather previously developed or used for other urban than single land use zone boundaries. purposes. Public realm/domain Green and blue grid Public spaces, used with little or no restriction each The network of green spaces, natural systems and day by the community, including parks, plazas, semi-natural systems including parks, rivers, streets and public infrastructure. bushland and private gardens that are strategically planned, designed and managed to support good quality of life in the urban environment. Subregion A subset of the wider North Coast Region. The Growth management strategy subregion was determined through consideration of land use relationships with Coffs Harbour as a A plan prepared to support effective and integrated regional city which extend to parts of the Clarence planning across a local government area. Prepared Valley, Bellingen, and Nambucca LGAs. This reflects as a single, whole of local government area the community of interest areas identified under the document, or a series of related components, a local North Coast Regional Plan 2036. growth management strategy guides the development of new local environmental plans and development control plans to implement policy.

52 Coffs Harbour Draft Regional City Action Plan 2036 Endnotes

1. Coffs Harbour City Council, NSW Heritage Council & Office of Environment & Heritage, 2015, Coffs Harbour Heritage Study 2015.

2. Australian Bureau of Statistics 2018, Census of Population and Housing (1996–2016).

3. Create NSW 2019, Cultural Infrastructure Plan 2025.

4. Hill PDA 2018, Coffs Harbour Employment Anchor Analysis and Actions.

5. Thomas, L. 2013, Aboriginal history of the Coffs Harbour region. Coffs Harbour City Library.

6. Coffs Harbour City Council, 2016, Coffs Harbour Sports Facility Plan 2016.

Back cover image: Muttonbird Island , Coffs Harbour

53 For more information about the Coffs Harbour Draft Regional City Action Plan, please visit: planning.nsw.gov.au