Central Coast Council are set to save around $220,000 each year on energy expenses following the installation of an additional 1.2MW of solar power on Council buildings.Council are in the process of installing 3,500 rooftop solar panels on 28 Council owned buildings with works due for completion by the end of 2020.This project will see energy consumption reduced by approximately 1.4GWh annually and reduce Council's carbon footprint by 1,100 tonnes of CO2-e per annum.

The quality and responsible use of water across the Central Coast remains firmly on our agenda with two new policies now on public exhibition for 28 days.Throughout July, residents will be able to have their say about both the Draft Drinking Water Quality Policy and Draft Recycled Water Quality Policy online.The Draft Drinking Water Policy consolidates the previous policies of the former Wyong Shire and Gosford City Councils and demonstrates Council’s commitment to providing continuous supply of drinking water that is consistent with the requirements of the Australian Drinking Water Guidelines.Additionally, the Draft Recycled Water Quality Policy, based on the former Gosford City Council Policy, reinforces Council’s commitment to the responsible and sustainable management and use of recycled water that is consistent with the Australian Guidelines for Recycled Water.Consolidating the two policies allows us to focus on the immediate water needs of the Central Coast as well as begin to take the first tentative steps of planning for future population growth.The drought of recent years and having to constantly monitor the dam storage levels clearly reminds us that water is a precious resource and we can’t afford to waste it.Have your say online on both water policies at yourvoiceourcoast.com   Mayor Lisa MatthewsCentral Coast Council

The Grant McBride Baths at The Entrance will reopen on Tuesday 7 July after undergoing extensive maintenance.Central Coast Council has used the Baths’ enforced COVID-19 closure to carry out extensive repairs to all pools, along with maintenance on the viewing deck, shade sail, amenities, stairs and handrails.A lifeguard will be present at the Baths each day between 8am and 1pm.We would like to thank our community for taking the COVID-19 situation seriously.

Central Coast Council has released two draft Floodplain Risk Management Plans and Studies for public consultation.The two documents, one for the Wallarah Creek catchment and the other covering the combined Killarney Vale/Long Jetty catchments, utilise information from floodplain risk management studies, offering options to mitigate the risk of overland flooding caused by excessive rainfall.Central Coast Mayor, Lisa Matthews said that Council understands these communities have been through a lot recently, and that the consultation period has been extended to allow all voices to be heard.“The communities that these floodplain plans and studies address have been directly impacted by either bushfires or flooding in the last six months.

In line with the NSW Government’s further easing restrictions of COVID-19 restrictions, Central Coast Council’s Gosford administration office will reopen for customer service transactions, including planning-related enquiries, from Monday 6 July.Customer service transactions are also available at five libraries:

Council is piloting new technology to help commuters find available car park spaces faster and more easily whilst reducing traffic congestion caused by drivers looking for car parking.The Smart Parking program is now being trialled at the West Gosford’s Racecourse Road car park using cameras equipped with smart parking analytics that identifies if a space is available.

Central Coast Council has demonstrated that a road project – including road base, road surface, kerb and guttering, footpaths and drainage – can be built with over 90 percent recycled material.Significant environmental benefits have been achieved on what looks like a typical road upgrade in Wyongah – with the majority of materials sourced from recycled household and construction products.Council Director Roads Transport Drainage and Waste, Boris Bolgoff said the project recycled over five million glass bottles, 270 kilograms of plastic and thousands of tonnes of used concrete and road gravel.“This project represents a milestone in Council’s commitment to sustainably develop and maintain the Central Coast’s 2,200 kilometre road network,” Mr Bolgoff said.“We started from the bottom and worked our way up – instead of virgin sand we used recycled glass for trench backfills and the sub-base of the road, and the road base itself is made from recycled crushed concrete and the existing road pavement.“For kerb and guttering and the footpath we used a ‘Green concrete’ made from fly ash (a by-product of coal fired powered stations) and recycled glass sand, with the reinforcing made out of recycled plastic, saving the equivalent of 50,000 plastic bags.“We also used the latest construction techniques to save over six thousand kilograms of carbon dioxide from entering the atmosphere – that’s the equivalent of a 25,000 kilometre car trip.“Our goal was to build a road project predominantly out of recycled material without compromising on quality or costing any more than a standard road project and we are thrilled to have achieved that objective.”The materials used, and technology developed for this project, will be rolled out across Council’s road construction program to generate significant environmental savings on a yearly basis.Mayor Lisa Matthews said Council is combining its commitment to sustainable practices and methods and delivering for the Coast’s large road network.“To complete every element of a road project with over 90 percent recycled materials is an incredible achievement and a reflection of Council’s commitment to sustainability and innovation,” Mayor Matthews said.“This project demonstrates that we can deliver projects with a significantly reduced impact on our environment without impacting the cost or the time it takes to get the job done.”Further innovative products and techniques recently used by Council to deliver for the region’s road network include:Australian-first ‘road train’ technology to lay foamed bitumen in a way that reduces construction time, increases use of recycled road pavement, reduces greenhouse emissions and delivers a more consistent road surface.Use of ‘Reconophalt’ road surfacing product made from plastic bags, glass bottles, used printer cartridges and reclaimed road asphalt.Sourcing of waste from local primary schools – chip packets, muesli bar wrappers, sandwich bags – for recycling into Reconophalt.

With this week’s fine weather and the school holidays fast approaching, many of you are keen to get outdoors to exercise, following COVID-19 physical distancing rules of course!This means our beaches in particular are very busy, so it can be hard to stay far enough away from others who are also exercising.Why not take this opportunity to experience all that the Central Coast has to offer, holiday at home and explore your own backyard?

Council defers consideration of Operational Plan 2020-21 to JulyCouncil will defer consideration of submissions and adoption of the Operational Plan 2020-21 until its meeting on 27 July 2020.This option for NSW Councils to finalise budgets for the new financial year before 30 July instead of the traditional 30 June cut-off date, was made permissible by the Minister for Local Government in April.  It was due to the extenuating circumstances being faced during the COVID-19 pandemic emergency.Mayor Lisa Matthews said that the additional time would be beneficial to ensure that the final budget proposed was in the best interests of the Central Coast community.“We have had to look at the 2020-21 budget with fresh eyes,” said Mayor Matthews.“As we don’t need reminding the COVID-19 pandemic has had a huge impact on the way that we work, a huge impact on business, and Central Coast Council is no exception.  Whilst the financial impacts are not yet fully understood for Council, ratepayers, or business;

Professional artists and producers across all art forms and cultural practices are invited to submit an Expression of Interest (EOI) for Central Coast Council’s Creative Art Central annual program.Creative Art Central will deliver up to $15,000 per project for five successful local professional artists/producers to deliver Central Coast based projects, with up to two of these five spaces, for returning recipients to fund subsequent stages of larger projects.Council’s Community Partnerships Unit Manager, Glenn Cannard said the program plays a key role in building our local creative industries’ footprint and has wide flow-on benefits.“Creative Art Central allows us to commission professional artists to deliver a variety of new quality projects to help promote, celebrate and activate the Central Coast,” Mr Cannard said.“By providing opportunities to commission new works and investing in the local creative economy, we not only assist with nurturing the growth of local artists but also in promoting stronger partnerships within the creative industries on the coast.”Successful applicants will also have an opportunity to work closely with allocated project partners within key established arts organisations and venues including Central Coast Conservatorium, Gosford Regional Gallery, Laycock Street Community Theatre, NAIDSA, The Art House and specialist staff within Council’s Community Partnerships Unit.Mayor Lisa Matthews said Council strongly encouraged diversity amongst applicants from all art backgrounds.“Professional community members from all culture practices and diverse backgrounds, across all art forms or production are encouraged to submit an EOI,” Mayor Matthews said.“Since its inception in 2011, Creative Art Central has produced a range of new creative initiatives across diverse art forms.“We’re proud to be able to provide an opportunity to assist creatives who are passionate in their craft.”2020-21 Creative Art Central EOI process:Applicants discuss proposed project and register expression of interest with Liesl Harvey, Cultural Development Worker:

As the NSW Government’s restrictions continue to ease on the Central Coast, attention has naturally shifted towards the economic challenges of a post-COVID world, and how our community will recover.Asking ourselves how we can shape our economy, create jobs and opportunities for our residents, and attract new business to the area is something that we have been looking at for many years.At our Council meeting on 9 June, we endorsed for public consultation two documents that outline our long-term vision of how we can rise to meet the economic challenges both in the short and long term.By 2040, the Central Coast will welcome nearly 88,000 new residents, our economy will grow by over $21billion, and over 72,000 new jobs will be created.The Draft Economic Development Strategy 2020-2040 is the first ever coast-wide economic strategy.An Economic Recovery and Resilience Framework has also been prepared to refocus Council’s approach to the forthcoming economic crisis and prioritise key action items to support the local economy.Ultimately, our plan is to ensure that our economy will be strong, diverse and resilient, delivering opportunity and benefits to our community and I would encourage everyone to have their say online at yourvoiceourcoast.comMayor Lisa MatthewsCentral Coast Council

Rates rise confirmed for FY 2020-21Following a determination from the Independent Pricing and Regulatory Tribunal (IPART), Council has resolved to accept a rate rise of 2.6 per cent for the 2020-21 financial year.The increase will take effect from July and will be incorporated into the ordinary and special rates.In accordance with the Local Government Act, IPART approved a rate peg increase of 2.6% for 2020-21.

Central Coast Council has developed the region’s first overarching Economic Development Strategy and Recovery and Resilience Framework which are currently on public exhibition for the community to submit feedback.The Central Coast economy has been hit hard by floods, bushfire and COVID-19 and Council is committed to facilitating a quick recovery and laying the foundations for sustainable growth and future resilience.Council Unit Manager Economic Development and Project Delivery, Jamie Barclay said the Economic Development Strategy aims to strengthen and future-proof the local economy.“This Strategy is focussed on initiatives that will provide the greatest tangible benefits to our economy and our community by harnessing the region’s strengths and taking full advantage of the identified opportunities,” Mr Barclay said.“We have identified how our region can grow and develop though targeted investment, improved partnerships and promotion of our region as a desirable place to do business and visit as one destination.

Central Coast Council continues to inspect and repair critical sewerage infrastructure across the Coast as part of its rolling program to improve the performance and reliability of the network.Sewer mains in 45 Central Coast suburbs have been rehabilitated this financial year using an innovative technology that extends the life of the infrastructure by up 50 years.Council Director Water and Sewer, Jamie Loader said that Council’s maintenance program has improved reliability, lowered the risk of environmental discharges and ensured the Central Coast is well positioned to cater for future population growth.“We have an ongoing maintenance program for our extensive 2,649km sewer network and our focus is on rehabilitating damaged sewer pipelines or replacing end-of-design-life equipment,” Mr Loader said.“We’re using an innovative technique to rehabilitate damaged sewer pipelines with structural re-lining, rather than replacing the infrastructure, and we start by clearing the pipe and assessing the conditions of sewer lines via CCTV camera.“If required, we insert a liner that reinforces the existing pipe structure, sealing any leaks and significantly reduces the risk of future damage – particularly from tree roots, the number one cause of sewer blocks and overflows.“This technique also eliminates the need to excavate in most cases, which minimises disruption to the community and reduces repair costs.”Mayor Lisa Matthews said significant investment in critical infrastructure now will ease the pressure on the network from a growing population while also enhancing the liveability for residents.“The Central Coast region is a fantastic place to live and it is essential we plan for the future to ensure we have adequate and sustainable infrastructure to meet expected demand,” Mayor Matthews said.Council actively monitors and tests the effectiveness of our sewer mains network across the Coast and these results indicate areas due for maintenance.Residents experiencing any water or sewer concerns are urged to contact Council immediately – any time day or night – on 1300 463 954.Find out more about our key water and sewer projects that happening this year online at centralcoast.nsw.gov.au/waterandsewerprojects.

A second round of community consultation is now underway for the new Lake Munmorah Recreational Facility to create a space which meets the community’s needs now and into the future.Council is continuing plans for the Recreation Facility for Lake Munmorah, incorporating a skate park and regional play space as part of Council’s commitment to provide active spaces that promote social inclusion and provide health and wellness benefits for the community.The skate park and regional play space will be located adjacent to the Lake Munmorah shopping centre on Tall Timbers Road and will provide an inclusive recreational space for a range of ages, abilities and skills, provide a safe and accessible venue for community activities and attract regional and significant skate events.The first round of community engagement activities for the proposed facility was held last year to seek initial input and comments on what you wanted to see designed for this new space.

Central Coast Council has taken steps to improve the development related application process with the launch of the NSW Planning Portal.Council’s Director Environment and Planning, Scott Cox said the portal provides the community with consistency in processes across NSW.“The new online platform provides community and industry members with a digital experience that supports effective planning and decision making under the Environmental Planning and Assessment Act 1979,” Mr Cox said.“From 16 June, all development applications, complying development certificates and construction, subdivision and occupation certificates as well as appointment of Council as a private certifier can be submitted through the online portal anywhere, anytime.“Once registered, users can view, manage, track and progress applications online via their user dashboard.

Central Coast Council thanked the efforts of all blood donors and urged everyone to consider blood donation during National Blood Donor Week from 14 June.Red Cross Lifeblood Service spokesman John Feist said blood donation centres follow strict sanitisation protocols, and that additional hygiene measures have been implemented due to COVID-19.“Maintaining Australia’s blood supply is absolutely vital and helps save the lives of cancer patients, road crash victims, new mums and babies and many other seriously ill Australians,” said Mr Feist.“Over the last 12 months blood donors on the Central Coast rolled up their sleeves almost 12,000 times to help save the lives of some of Australia’s most vulnerable patients.  “In the last 12 months, Australia has faced unparalleled challenges, from devastating bushfires to the Coronavirus pandemic, yet one thing has remained consistent;

Following the latest easing of COVID-19 restrictions, Council will reopen additional facilities as outlined below with a range of safety measures in place.Peninsula Leisure Centre – reopened from Saturday 13 June 2020GymCreche (limited numbers)Group fitness (limited numbers)Indoor pools for lap swimming and rehabilitation (limited numbers)Leisure and play swimming not permittedLearn to Swim and Aqua Fitness programs start date still to be determinedCasual basketballLimited change rooms will be available24 hour gym start date to be advisedFor further information call 4325 8123Lake Haven Recreation Centre – reopened from Saturday 13 June 2020GymCreche (limited numbers)Group fitness (limited numbers)Casual basketball/squashLimited change rooms will be availableFor further information call 4304 8020Gosford Olympic Pool – reopened from Saturday 13 June 2020Outdoor pool reopened with updated restrictionsIndoor pools for lap swimming and rehabilitation (limited numbers)Leisure and play swimming not permittedLearn to Swim and Aqua Fitness programs start date still to be determinedLimited change rooms will be availableFor further information call 4304 7250Niagara Park Stadium – reopened from Monday 15 June 2020Bookings and casual programsFor further information call 4325 8194Gosford Regional Gallery – reopened from Monday 15 June 2020From 15 June – Coastal Sanctuaries by Robyn Pedley will be exhibited in the Foyer GalleryFrom 22 June – Emerging will be exhibited in the in the main GalleryLimited number of visitors in line with the four square metres per person requirement and timed entry to reduce queuesMust book onlineFor further information and to book visit centralcoast.nsw.gov.au/galleriesToukley Aquatic Centre – reopened from Monday 22 June 2020Indoor pools for lap swimming and rehabilitation (limited numbers)Leisure and play swimming not permittedLearn to Swim and Aqua Fitness programs start date still to be determinedFor further information call 4304 8060At all Council facilities reopening the following is in place/required for visitors, staff and volunteers:increased cleaning regimehand sanitiser units installedremoval of some seating and other touchable itemsaccess limited to ensure capacity limits are maintained – short waiting periods may be experiencedcontact details (name and mobile number or email address) will be recorded for a period of at least 28 days.

Central Coast Stadium has received the go ahead to allow corporate guests into the venue.The Stadium will be the first venue under this year’s NRL Premiership to welcome corporate sponsors into the venue, ahead of three NRL events scheduled over the weekend.

The events sector has been hit hard by COVID-19 and this has included a host of events presented by Central Coast Council.To keep the events’ magic alive Council has looked to develop online versions of some of its most popular events including Live Well, Harvest Festival and ChromeFest.Council Unit Manager Community Partnerships, Glenn Cannard said local providers had been engaged to capture event highlights and create engaging video packages.“Whilst COVID-19 restrictions are easing, it will be some time before our usual events schedule can resume and we have made the difficult decision to cancel all physical events to the end of October 2020 – this unfortunately encompasses our much-loved ChromeFest event,” Mr Cannard said.“We’ve been thinking outside the box to create new ways to bring some of our events safely into the living rooms of our community and those that would usually travel to the Coast to experience our events.“The Live Well Festival was the first to go online – with local health and well-being providers giving us insight into how we can make healthier choices and positive changes in our lives.“Harvest Festival is currently rolling out online and gives us a glimpse behind the farm gate through four engaging video packages – Taste of Harvest, Paddock to Plate, Embrace the Adventure and Farmers’ Story.“We’re currently working out how to showcase some of the best features of ChromeFest 2020 online – so that we can experience the ‘show and shine’ and ‘twist and shake’ fun of this great event from our homes.“Also stay tuned for updates on how we plan to deliver our events from November onwards in smaller innovative format programs that meet current restrictions.”Mayor Lisa Matthews said the Coast’s reputation as an events destination would continue to grow.“With restrictions easing, our stunning region is open for business and we’re thrilled to welcome back visitors to the Central Coast,” Mayor Matthews said.“Some of our flagship events may not be going ahead in their traditional formats this year however it’s exciting that we can partake in some of the fun from the safety of our homes.“We can also assure that our major events will return bigger and better than ever as soon as possible.”Parliamentary Secretary for the Central Coast and Member for Terrigal, Adam Crouch said the NSW Government was providing funding from the Bushfire Community Resilience and Economic Recovery Program.“The COVID-19 pandemic has disrupted lives and livelihoods, but bushfire recovery and support remains front-of-mind for the NSW Government,” Mr Crouch said.“Council has received $25,000 to continue the Harvest Festival event in 2020 so that local businesses can be better promoted online and in a way that encourages our Central Coast community to buy local.”Online events are featured on Council’s new Coast Connect YouTube Channel – centralcoast.nsw.gov.au/youtube – and Harvest Festival and ChromeFest will be available on the Facebook pages for the respective events.For a full list of COVID-19 event cancellations and information on venue closures and re-openings please visit centralcoast.nsw.gov.au/COVID-19.