Lismore City Council has taken a significant step in planning for the city’s future, endorsing the progression of a comprehensive, expert-led Strategic Planning Framework at its April meeting.
The framework consolidates five key strategies, anchored by a draft Local Strategic Planning Statement (LSPS). It outlines how Lismore will accommodate growth, including where new housing and jobs can be supported, and how the city will respond to future challenges and opportunities.
At its core, the framework establishes long-term targets, including planning for a population of 60,000, up to 10,000 new homes and 6,500 jobs, positioning Lismore as an evolving regional centre.
The work draws on extensive community input, including last year’s Community Strategic Plan, and incorporates nationally recognised planning expertise. Council engaged former NSW and Queensland Government Chief Planner Gary White from Solve Property Group to help guide the strategy.
Mayor Steve Krieg said the framework represents a substantial body of work informed by research, local insight and national expertise.
“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 and proactive long-term approach to planning for Lismore’s future, drawing on some of the best planning expertise in the country, to ensure we get the balance right for Lismore.”
“This is about building a smart, sustainable regional city that supports jobs, housing and opportunity, while protecting the lifestyle and unique character our Lismore and villages community values.”
The LSPS, required for all NSW councils, is supported by four theme-based strategies covering economic development, biodiversity, resilience and rural land use. Together, they provide a coordinated roadmap to guide housing, investment, environmental protection and infrastructure planning across the local government area.
Council emphasised the framework does not constitute rezoning. While it identifies areas that may support future residential or employment uses, any land-use changes would still require a formal planning process, including detailed assessment and further community consultation.
A structured community engagement program will begin in early May, designed to give residents the opportunity to understand the framework and provide informed feedback.
In addition to online submissions via Council’s Your Say platform, the program will include:
- a staffed drop-in consultation space at Lismore Library with interactive displays
- pop-up engagement at local markets and community locations across the LGA
- targeted engagement with landowners, including direct communication and information sessions
- briefings and workshops with business, community groups, government agencies and First Nations stakeholders
Details and dates for consultation activities will be published on Council’s Your Say platform.
Mayor Krieg said community feedback would be critical in refining the framework.
“These documents set the direction, but they are not final,” he said.
“We’re providing a range of ways for people to engage, ask questions and have their say, so we can make sure this framework reflects both community priorities and the opportunities ahead.”
All submissions received during the exhibition period will be reviewed before the final framework is returned to Council.
“This is a significant opportunity to plan well for the future,” Krieg said.
“If we get this right, Lismore will be well-positioned as a strong and sustainable regional city for generations to come.”
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