Central Coast Peak Bodies Alliance Calls for Stronger Commercial and Community Vision for Gosford Waterfront

The Central Coast Peak Bodies Alliance (Business NSW, Regional Development Australia Central Coast, Central Coast Industry Connect, the Urban Development Institute of Australia, the Property Council of Australia, the Housing Industry Association, and the Central Coast Leadership Forum) welcomes the NSW Government’s continued focus on revitalising the Gosford Waterfront but expresses disappointment at the lack of commercial activation opportunities in the current envisioned plans.

While the proposal to enhance public space and connectivity is positive, the Alliance believes the real priority must be creating a vibrant, connected precinct that supports the region’s growing population and visitor economy.

Scott Goold, Regional Director of Business NSW, said:

"The Gosford Waterfront needs to be a destination, not just a thoroughfare. Food, beverage, and entertainment facilities must be part of the plan to create an attractive space for both locals and visitors. These elements are essential to the economic and cultural vibrancy of the precinct."

Focus on Pedestrian Access

The Alliance acknowledges the Government’s interest in cycling connectivity but argues that pedestrian access between the Gosford CBD and the waterfront should take priority. With over 5,000 new residents expected in Gosford CBD in the coming years, ensuring easy access to the waterfront is vital for community well-being, local business support, and urban activation.

Gail Cottrill, Chair of Regional Development Australia Central Coast, said:

"For Gosford to thrive as a true city centre, we need seamless pedestrian connectivity between the CBD and the waterfront. This is critical if we want to create a liveable, accessible city for our rapidly growing community."

Call for Greater Transparency

The NSW Government has referenced market sounding and feasibility studies but provided little detail. The Alliance calls for the release of insights from developers about their views on timelines and the potential for residential, mixed-use, and arts and cultural facilities along the waterfront.

Stuart Ayres, CEO of UDIA NSW, said:

“We know there is immediate appetite for mixed-use and cultural activation near the water. We also know that market conditions will evolve and there will be interest to investigate transformative future development opportunities around the waterfront. We need those options to remain on the table."

Nuatali Nelmes, Director of the Property Council of Australia (Hunter Central Coast), said:

"The Gosford Waterfront project must be underpinned by a long-term vision that blends public and private investment. Providing clarity on government planning, and infrastructure delivery timing will help build confidence for future investment in an exciting growth area for the region."

A Call for a More Ambitious Vision

The Alliance urges the NSW Government to ensure that the Gosford Waterfront vision reflects the aspirations of a dynamic regional city, incorporating commercial, cultural, and recreational spaces that will serve residents, businesses, and visitors for decades to come.

For further information, contact:

• Scott Goold – Business NSW – Scott.Goold@businessnsw.com

• John Mouland – Regional Development Australia Central Coast –John.Mouland@rdacc.org.au

• Frank Sammut – Central Coast Industry Connect – Frank@centralcoastindustryconnect.com.au

• Stuart Ayres – UDIA NSW - sayres@udiansw.com.au

• Nuatali Nelmes – Property Council of Australia – nnelmes@propertycouncil.com.au

• Craig Jennion – Housing Industry Association – c.jennion@hia.com.au

• David Norris – Central Coast Leadership Forum – cclf@cclf.com.au

About the Central Coast Peak Bodies Alliance

The Central Coast Peak Bodies Alliance, a recently formed collaboration between Business NSW, Regional Development Australia Central Coast, Central Coast Industry Connect, the Urban Development Institute of Australia, Property Council of Australia, Housing Industry Association and the Central Coast Leadership Forum, has come together with a shared commitment to unlocking our region’s full potential through advocating for targeted infrastructure investment and economic development.

Media Contacts:

Mr John Mouland

Director Regional Development & Chief Executive Officer

REGIONAL DEVELOPMENT AUSTRALIA CENTRAL COAST

P: 4349 4949 / 0438 695 708

E: john.mouland@rdacc.org.au