The City of Gold Coast is inviting community members to take part in planning for the city's future as it grows towards a population of over 1 million by 2046.
The City has launched an Expressions of Interest campaign inviting people who live, work and play on the Gold Coast to join one of three representative forums.
These forums will play a vital role in the development of the City's new Planning Scheme and Local Growth Management Strategy.
Gold Coast Deputy Mayor and Planning Chair, Cr Mark Hammel said with over one million residents expected to call the city home by 2046, community involvement is crucial to shape how the city will plan to manage growth while preserving the natural environment and lifestyle our locals value most.
"To meet the growing demands of the city, we need to identify sustainable growth opportunities while protecting the natural environment and lifestyle we all value," Cr Hammel said.
"To ensure we have a diverse range of perspectives and experiences to help us plan for the future we are inviting expressions of interest for three important representative groups."
The City recently engaged more than 3000 community members through the Urban Change Readiness consultation, gaining valuable insight into community priorities.
The City learned what matters most to Gold Coast residents is ensuring a balanced distribution of growth, protecting natural environment, enhancing green spaces, well serviced neighbourhoods, improving transport and community facilities, high quality, sustainable urban design, a strong economy and a transparent planning process.
Cr Hammel emphasised that future planning would need to focus on infill development in existing neighbourhoods.
"This approach keeps homes closer to jobs, transport, and services, making the best use of the city's existing infrastructure."
There are three representative forum options for the community to participate in:
Community Reference Group – a 20-person group comprised of diverse representation of community members from across the city that will meet in person.
Industry Reference Group – a 20-person group comprised of professionals from the property, construction, planning and development industries who regularly interact with the current and previous planning schemes.
Community Insights Panel – an online panel of 300 people comprised of a diverse representation of community members from across the city who will collaborate online.
Expressions of Interest for membership to these groups is now open here. Expressions of Interest close on 14 May.
"Your voice matters. Stay involved, share your thoughts, and help bring our shared vision for the Gold Coast to life," Cr Hammel said.
