Planning for growth in South West Rocks

Who did we hear from? 

Council has received 414 submissions to the South West Rocks Structure Plan and 139 submissions for the Local Housing Strategy. The results are currently being analysed and will be reported back to community shortly. 

What is happening?

The population is forecasted to grow at an average of 2.4% per annum between 2021 to 2036. To meet the demands of the forecasted population it is projected that South West Rocks will need an additional 1,582 dwellings by 2041.

The government's North Coast Regional Plan 2036 has identified South West Rocks as an Urban Growth Area. The delivery of housing is a priority with the aim to deliver an appropriate supply of residential land to meet the region’s projected housing needs.

Kempsey Shire Council is developing a long-term plan of the infrastructure needed to sustainably support this predicted growth. It is called the South West Rocks Structure Plan. This is being undertaken in parallel with the development of the Local Growth Management Strategy.

We are currently working with the community to develop a shared vision of:

• How to maintain and grow a sense of place and create a community in South West Rocks
• What type of housing should be built and where are suitable locations
• How to protect the natural environment and cultural heritage of the area
• How can we support employment opportunities and growing the local economy
• What transport and movement infrastructure is required?

More information can be found in the South West Rocks Structure Plan Background Paper

The South West Rocks Structure Plan

The Structure Plan will outline priorities and develop actions to meet the development and planning needs for South West Rocks.

Through the Structure Plan Council will articulate a clear vision and framework for the future and understand the values that the community cherish and want to sustain.

The Structure Plan will be developed over the next 12 months in a staged process:

• A Background Paper has been prepared in order to involve the community early in the process
• Council is now undertaking engagement on the Background Paper with the community and stakeholders
• This will be used to draft a discussion paper to inform the Structure Plan
• Finally, the South West Rocks Structure Plan will be drafted and endorsed