Last chances to have say on Medowie plan

PORT Stephen Council’s plan for upgrading Medowie’s town centre remains on public exhibition until 1 March.

As previously reported in NOTA, the draft Medowie Town Centre Master Plan aims to revamp the town’s centre through expansion of existing facilities, improvement of traffic flow and new shops and a community centre.

Community members are being encouraged to have their say on the plan before the deadline expires.

Council’s Strategy and Environment Section Manager Brock Lamont said, “The intended outcome of the Medowie Town Centre Master Plan is to establish a clear strategic vision for Council-owned operational land at 38 Ferodale Road, Medowie.

“The masterplan aims to extend the existing commercial town centre, provide a central recreation and community meeting place, deliver housing close to services, improve walkability and enhance Medowie’s local character.”

As outlined in the plan, council believes that Medowie has the potential to become a successful gateway community for tourists entering the region via the nearby Newcastle Airport.

Other key points of the proposal are to implement a two-way car “loop” to ease congestion at the intersection of Medowie and Ferodale Roads.

Speaking on what’s next after this exhibition, Mr Lamont said, “Following the exhibition period, community feedback will be reviewed and incorporated into a revised masterplan, which is expected to return to Council for endorsement later this year.

“Council has also identified a staging and funding strategy to support implementation of the masterplan over the short term and long term.”

By Joseph RICHARDS