Council calls for input on plan for city of 60,000

LISMORE City Council is planning for a population of 60,000, with a new Strategic Planning Framework outlining how the city could accommodate around 15,000 additional residents.

The framework sets out how the regional centre could support up to 10,000 new homes and an estimated 6,500 jobs as part of its long-term development.

It brings together five planning strategies anchored by a draft Local Strategic Planning Statement, outlining where future housing and employment growth could occur and how the city will respond to infrastructure, environmental and social challenges.

The council has drawn on community consultation, including last year’s Community Strategic Plan, as well as input from planning specialists.

Former NSW and Queensland government chief planner Gary White, now with Solve Property Group, has been engaged to help guide the framework.

Mayor Steve Krieg said the approach aimed to provide clarity and direction for future growth.

“This is about being clear on where we’re heading and making sure we’re ready for it,” he said.

“We’ve taken a considered long-term approach to planning for Lismore’s future, drawing on planning expertise to ensure we get the balance right.”

He said the vision was to build “a smart, sustainable regional city” that balances economic opportunity, housing supply and liveability while maintaining the region’s character.

“If we get this right, Lismore will be well-positioned as a strong and sustainable regional city for generations to come,” he said.

The framework is supported by four theme-based strategies covering economic development, biodiversity, resilience and rural land use.

Together, they provide a roadmap for housing, investment, environmental protection and infrastructure planning across the local government area.

The council said any land-use changes would still require formal planning processes, including detailed assessment and further community consultation.

An engagement program will begin in May, giving residents the opportunity to learn more about the framework and provide feedback.

Targeted sessions will also be held with landowners, businesses, community groups, government agencies and First Nations stakeholders.

Further details will be released on the council’s Your Say platform, with submissions to be considered before the framework is finalised.