Survey launched to help shape our Growth and Housing Strategy
As part of the next phase in the engagement process for the Growth and Housing Strategy Kiama Council has launched an online engagement portal and an in-depth survey.
The survey is part of Council's adopted engagement plan to collaboratively develop the Growth and Housing Strategy in consultation with the community.
Director Planning, Environment and Community Jessica Rippon said "I urge every member of the community to actively participate in this pivotal conversation to help Council thoughtfully plan for future growth, embracing opportunities and preserving the essence of our Municipality."
"The survey takes about 15 minutes to complete and includes a range of questions about growth and opportunities for the future. Paper copies of the survey are also available at our Customer Service Counter at Council's Administration Building and the Kiama and Gerringong Libraries. "
"Additionally, over the school holidays our libraries will also feature an interactive growth and housing display with miniature houses and drawing sheets, inviting the younger generation to envision the future of our community."
"I have been really pleased with the response so far. We are hearing a diverse range of views, from all different members of the community."
"These have been captured through our community pop ups, a stall at the Kiama Farmers Markets, individual stakeholder discussions and stakeholder meetings."
"Feedback from these engagement activities and the input from the survey is all being captured and will be provided in a report on the engagement process in coming weeks. "
Industry Forum
Last Friday (12 April), Council also successfully hosted the first Industry Forum. Attended by 60+ housing industry representative including builders, consultants, building designers, and developers. The forum was a chance to engage directly with industry and start an open and frank conversation about growth and the planning system within NSW.
The forum commenced with an overview of strategy development, highlighting changes to the development assessment team and process enhancements aimed at bolstering the Council's capacity to process development applications. Following this, table conversations delved into infrastructure, employment lands, housing, DA assessment, and engagement with Council.
"The forum was well attended, and everyone participated with a positive and collaborative approach. We had some open and robust conversations, all undertaken with good will and intent." said Director Rippon
"It was a pleasing step forward and helped to continue to build a Council that focuses on creating great communities and working together, with all stakeholders."
Further opportunities for the community to have your say will be made available as Council develops its Growth and Housing strategy. We want to hear from a diverse range of people, especially those we don't normally hear from, alongside traditional stakeholders.
