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Giving priority to the environment

With tourism being a key industry in the Coffs Harbour region, it is crucial that Council is able to maintain and enhance features that have attracted residents and visitors to the area for so long. Protection of the natural environment is essential for tourism, preserving the unique features and attributes which make the area different from other holiday destinations.

Likewise, environmental integrity enhances the amenity, lifestyle and health of local residents. Environmental protection can be a costly short term investment, but the long term returns are bountiful. With this in mind, Coffs Harbour City Council has decided to introduce an annual levy, averaging $25 per ratepayer, earmarked specifically for environmental programs.

The levy, recently approved by the Minister for Local Government, will raise approximately $600,000 for environmental work. Programs to be funded will be decided following community input to ascertain priorities. An environmental forum is proposed to crystalise the consultation process.

Among the projects to be considered include works to prevent land and coastal erosion, regeneration of sand dunes, creek maintenance, land acquisition of environmentally sensitive sites and the Jetty Heritage project. In addition infrastructure, such as new cycleways, footpaths and walkways, will improve access to environmentally significant areas.

For further information contact Mark Ferguson, Director Finance and Administration, telephone (02) 6648 4000.

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