PORT Stephens Council has announced its community advocacy priorities ahead of the Federal Election.

The intent of the advocacy program is for the Council to be able to put issues of importance to the key decision makers on behalf of the community.

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Priorities announced include foreshores and waterways, housing supply, Williamtown Special Activation Precinct, town centre revitalisation, better connections, upgrades to Newcastle Airport Terminal, creating a sustainable future and sport and recreation infrastructure.

The Council is seeking funding to implement foreshore revitalisation including $250,000 for a business case and concept design for the Nelson Bay commercial tour operator wharf, visitors centre and foreshore upgrade, $150,000 for the Development of a Port Stephens Waterways Strategy to deliver economic, tourism and environmental outcomes, $600,000 for minor stabilisation works at Shoal Bay and Corlette to reduce coastal erosion and $1.6 million of co-funding to support construction of a new Marine Rescue Facility at Lemon Tree Passage.

In addition, commitment to funding the highway interchange and drainage channel at Kings Hill to catalyse housing development is requested.

Council is also advocating for all levels of government to resolve long term drainage issues to alleviate land use constraints to unlock development in Williamtown, whilst aligning all levels of government to facilitate future development through streamlined planning and investment attraction.

For revitalisation of town centres, $2.3 million in funding for planning and concept design of Medowie Town Centre and District Playground, $15-plus million in funding to deliver package of works for the Raymond Terrace Public Domain Plan and $5 million to deliver package of works for the Nelson Bay Public Domain Plan is requested.

A number of upgrades for roads and motorways are also addressed in the Federal advocacy document with several high priority pathways addressed.

Other priorities include a Code R runway at Williamtown, assistance in becoming a carbon neutral Council by 2025 and funding for sporting and multipurpose centres are included.

Mayor Ryan Palmer said that as Port Stephens prepares for the future and potential growth, it is important that the region is equipped to meet the needs of the community for many years to come.

“Our Council calls on all levels of government to partner with us and drive these major initiatives that will shape the future of Port Stephens for years to come.

“Our community is like no other and we are seeking policy commitments from the government to ensure the focus on our community is at the forefront of their future planning,” he said.

By Tara CAMPBELL