COFFS Harbour City Council has resolved to note a report on the valuation of the Australian Rail Track Corporation (ARTC) land located between Jordan Esplanade and the North Coast railway line.

The motion also requested a separate report to be returned to Council, outlining possible funding sources for the purchase of the land based on the valuation, should a purchase be pursued.

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The motion was passed six to three, with councillors Amos, Cassell, Judge, Sechi, Townley and Wolgamot all voting for the valuation and funding investigation to take place.

Mayor Councillor Paul Amos said he believes that the community would be in favour of purchasing the land and have it provide recreational use as the city grows.

“This is prime recreational land that needs to be preserved well into the future.

“I believe as a Council we have a duty to explore a potential purchase.

“The current zoning of the ARTC land in question is public recreation and infrastructure.

“The objectives of these zones focus on keeping the land for public open space and recreation, providing walking and cycling infrastructure and to prevent development that is not compatible with this.”

By Sam PARKER