Central Coast Alliance Calls for Stronger Commercial Focus in Gosford Waterfront Revitalisation

Download IPFS

The Central Coast Peak Bodies Alliance has acknowledged the NSW Government’s recent announcement on the Gosford waterfront revitalisation but expressed clear disappointment over the lack of commercial development opportunities in the current proposal. While the Government’s plan to introduce a shared pathway from Point Clare is a positive move to improve public spaces and connectivity, the Alliance insists that the real estate and business potential of the precinct must be prioritized to meet the demands of a growing population and an expanding visitor economy.

The Alliance, comprising Business NSW, Regional Development Australia Central Coast (RDA), Central Coast Industry Connect, the Urban Development Institute of Australia (UDIA), the Property Council of Australia, the Housing Industry Association, and the Central Coast Leadership Forum, emphasizes that the Gosford waterfront should evolve into a vibrant, mixed-use destination, not merely a pedestrian corridor. Scott Goold, Regional Director of Business NSW, stressed the importance of incorporating food, beverage, and entertainment facilities into the redevelopment. “These are critical components to drive economic activity and make the precinct attractive for residents and tourists alike,” Goold explained.

While cycling infrastructure is important, the Alliance argues pedestrian access between the Gosford Central Business District (CBD) and the waterfront must be the priority, especially with an estimated 5,000 new residents expected in the CBD in the coming years. Easy, walkable access will stimulate local businesses and help activate the urban environment. Gail Cottrill, Chair of RDA Central Coast, remarked, “Seamless pedestrian connections are fundamental to creating a liveable city that supports our region’s rapid growth.”

The Alliance also called for greater transparency from the Government regarding referenced market sounding and feasibility studies. They urged the release of insights from property developers concerning timelines and prospects for residential, mixed-use, arts, and cultural developments along the waterfront. Stuart Ayres, CEO of UDIA NSW, pointed to a clear and immediate market appetite for mixed-use and cultural projects by the water. “Market conditions will continue to evolve, and it is essential that options for transformative future development remain on the table,” he said.

Nuatali Nelmes, Director of the Property Council of Australia (Hunter Central Coast), underscored the need for a long-term, strategic vision that blends public and private sector investment. “Clear government planning and defined infrastructure delivery schedules will build confidence and attract investment into this exciting growth corridor,” Nelmes said.

The Alliance urges the NSW Government to craft a waterfront vision that reflects the ambitions of a dynamic regional city, one that integrates commercial, cultural, and recreational spaces to serve residents, businesses, and visitors well into the future. By championing targeted infrastructure investments and economic development, the Alliance remains committed to unlocking the full real estate potential of the Central Coast region.