March 22, 2026
From the Mayor’s desk: Cr Leah Anderson

From the Mayor’s desk: Cr Leah Anderson

RAYMOND Terrace has a proud history as a busy river port, and that heritage is still part of our town’s identity today.

The town has grown, and it’s time we worked together on a new plan that reflects our community’s priorities.

The Raymond Terrace–Heatherbrae Strategy has been guiding our direction since 2015 to make this place a strong major regional centre and a great place to live, work and play.

Most of the actions are completed, with two important tasks remaining, allowing taller buildings in the town centre and activating Council-owned sites.

These steps would let us build more housing and support new roads, drainage, pathways and public spaces.

Our town has the potential to support 2,500 new homes.

It’s vital that these are the right kind of homes, too. We want our young people to be able to afford to live here, and our seniors to have the option to downsize without needing to leave their friends and family.

By planning for a variety of housing types, like townhouses and smaller units, we can help every generation stay connected to Raymond Terrace.

We’re now creating the Raymond Terrace Place Plan to shape its future together.

This is a 20-year guide designed to celebrate our local character while making sure we have the right mix of homes and public spaces for everyone.

This plan is also about the practical things that make daily life better.

Your feedback has made it clear that safety, the upkeep of our parks, better walking, cycling, and transport connections are major concerns.

We’re looking at real fixes with your input to make sure this plan reflects what matters most.

So far our team has been out at local shopping centres and Parkrun to listen to what you want for Raymond Terrace.

There is still a chance to share your ideas at our Community Workshop, to be held at the Raymond Terrace Bowling Club on Thursday, 26 March 2026, from 5pm to 7pm.

If you can’t attend, you can still share your thoughts on our Have Your Say website until 7 April 2026.

Your input will make sure the Raymond Terrace Place Plan reflects what matters most to the people who live, work, and visit here.

By Mayor Leah ANDERSON, Port Stephens Council

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