While the key purpose of the REDS project is to give direction to and underpin a new, region-wide, local environmental plan for the MidCoast Council area, the strategy will proactively identify a diverse range of economic growth opportunities for the region’s rural areas, establishing a solid platform for the region’s future sustainability. 

City Plan Services, with sub-consultants Aurora Research & Development and MJD Environmental, will manage the project in collaboration with MidCoast Council and a range of other key stakeholders and government agencies.

“By concentrating our focus on the region’s rural landscape, we aim to highlight opportunities for diversification, identify constraints to development, and create positive social, economic and environmental benefits for our rural communities into the future”, strategic planning manager, Roger Busby said.

The REDS project also will dovetail into the development of a strategic planning framework that is consistent with regional priorities identified for the MidCoast region in the Hunter Regional Plan 2036.

These priorities include supporting the region’s visitor economy, protecting its productive landscapes, managing water catchments and protecting the area’s environment and natural assets.

“The Rural Economic Diversity Strategy will provide an important step forward in consolidating plans from all three former regions, with a particular focus on the development and diversification of our rural sector for future generations,” Mr Busby said.

Now underway, the REDS project is anticipated to be completed by December 2017.

“The outcome will impact people from across the entire region, so the process will involve engaging with key stakeholders and local communities throughout the strategy’s development phase.”

To stay updated, visit www.midcoast.nsw.gov.au where updated information and details of how to get involved will be provided as the project progresses.