Lismore City Council say they have ‘taken a defining step in planning for its future, with a comprehensive, expert-led Strategic Planning Framework supported for progression at the April Council meeting’.
In a media release they say, ‘The Framework brings together five key strategies, led by a draft Local Strategic Planning Statement (LSPS), and sets out how the city will grow, where new housing and jobs can be supported, and how Lismore will respond to future challenges and opportunities’.
‘At its core, the framework sets a clear direction and long-term targets. This includes planning for a population of 60,000, enabling up to 10,000 new homes and supporting 6,500 jobs. This positions Lismore as a strong and evolving regional centre’.
As of 2024, the estimated resident population for the Lismore City local government area is approximately 43,750.
The media release continues, ‘The work draws on extensive community input, including last year’s Community Strategic Plan and has been informed by nationally recognised planning expertise. Council engaged former NSW and Queensland Government Chief Planner Gary White from Solve Property Group to help guide the strategy’.
Mayor Steve Krieg said the Framework reflects a significant body of work, underpinned by significant research, local insight and national expertise.
‘This is about being clear on where we’re heading and making sure, we’re ready for it,’ he said.
‘We’ve taken a considered and proactive long-term approach to planning for Lismore’s future, drawing on some of the best planning expertise in the country, to ensure we get the balance right for Lismore.’
‘This is about building a smart, sustainable regional city that supports jobs, housing and opportunity, while protecting the lifestyle and unique character our Lismore and villages community values.
‘The LSPS, required for all NSW councils, is supported by four key theme-based strategies covering economic development, biodiversity, resilience and rural land use. Together, they provide a coordinated roadmap to guide housing, investment, environmental protection and infrastructure planning across the Local Government Area.
‘Importantly, while the Framework identifies areas that may support future residential or employment uses, Council has emphasised that this is not a rezoning. Any changes to land use would still require a formal planning process, including detailed assessment and further community input.
‘A structured engagement program is set to commence at the beginning of May. The program will be carefully designed to ensure that the community has ample opportunity to learn more about the Framework and make considered submissions.
‘In addition to online submissions via Council’s Your Say platform, the program includes:
- A staffed drop-in consultation space at Lismore Library, with interactive displays and support to help people understand the documents
- Pop-up engagement at local markets and community locations across the LGA
- Targeted engagement with landowners, including direct communication and information sessions
- Briefings and workshops with business, community groups, government agencies and First Nations stakeholders
‘Further details and dates for all consultation activities will be advertised on the Council’s Your Say platform.
Mayor Krieg said community input would play an important role in refining the outcome.
‘These documents set the direction, but they are not final,’ he said.
‘We’re providing a range of ways for people to engage, ask questions and have their say, so we can make sure this framework reflects both community priorities and the opportunities ahead.’
‘All feedback received during the exhibition period will be reviewed and considered before the final framework is returned to Council.
‘This is a significant opportunity to plan well for the future,’ Mayor Krieg said.
‘If we get this right, Lismore will be well-positioned as a strong and sustainable regional city for generations to come.’
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