Faster development application processing, upgraded playgrounds, and strong performances by the Coffs Harbour Laboratory and Coffs Coast Holiday Parks headline the latest quarterly report from the City of Coffs Harbour.
The Quarterly Progress Report for October to December 2025 (Q2) outlines progress against measures in the City’s Operational Plan for the current financial year.
As at 31 December, 177 of the City’s 270 Operational Plan projects were listed as “on track”. Of the remainder, 32 had been completed, 35 were experiencing minor or major disruption, and 26 were on hold or yet to commence.
Capital works completed during the quarter included construction of the Arthur Street water main ($769,287), the Melaleuca Avenue footbridge and shared path upgrade at Woolgoolga ($448,288), and the Emerald Beach Reserve upgrade, which included a new playground ($830,253).
“The Lowanna Playground Renewal project ($252,843) was another highlight in the run to Christmas. The community now has a modern and fit-for-purpose play space that is accessible with the inclusion of a connecting footpath,” Mayor Nikki Williams said.
“Quarterly Reports show the community how the City is delivering on the things which matter, as well as shedding light on areas where there’s challenge.”
Development application assessment was a standout, with an average processing time of 81 days – well ahead of the Minister’s Statement of Expectations Order benchmark for Coffs Harbour of 94 days.
The City’s commercial units also reported strong results.
“The Coffs Harbour Laboratory reported revenue growth of more than 8 per cent while our holiday parks experienced a 50 per cent growth in online bookings,” Business Services Director Steve Bayliss said.
Cultural facilities recorded strong visitation during the quarter, including:
- 7,035 at the Jetty Memorial Theatre
- 9,992 visits to Yarrila Arts Museum
- 159,658 physical visits to the City’s libraries
“These quarterly reports show how we’re tracking against the key pillars of our Community Strategic Plan. For the ratepayers, it’s a snapshot in time of how we are delivering projects and services, while it’s also insightful for us to evaluate organisational performance,” General Manager Murray Wood said.
The report is accompanied by the required Budget Review Statement for the quarter.
“The revised consolidated budget position to December is a net surplus of $31.4 million and an operating surplus before capital revenue of $9.8m,” Chief Financial Officer Amy Mott said.
“The City’s General Fund improved to a $100,000 surplus.”
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