$41m funding to get the ball rolling on the revitalisation of the Gosford waterfront

The Minns Labor Government is getting the ball rolling on the revitalisation of the Gosford waterfront with the announcement of a $41 million investment in the upcoming State Budget.

An initial $8.5 million was committed prior to the 2023 election to conduct feasibility studies on how to best revitalise the waterfront precinct to enhance public space as well as improve connectivity.

“Central Coast residents are lucky to have some of the best waterfront views in the world.

“Being able to enjoy this natural asset alongside modern, public amenities shouldn’t be restricted to places like Sydney Harbour.

“We’re getting on with unlocking the potential of the Gosford waterfront so local residents and tourists can make the most of this spectacular area for years to come,” Premier Chris Minns said.

Preliminary planning has been completed and work can commence to ultimately unlock the potential for Gosford’s overlooked waterfront.

The key first stage of the revitalisation will link Gosford to Point Clare with a new boardwalk for pedestrians and cyclists. Not only will this improve connectivity and accessibility, but it will also open up Brisbane Water for the Central Coast community.

Stage 1 will be funded in the 2026-27 NSW Budget and it will deliver a 1 kilometre long, 4.5-metre-wide boardwalk adjacent the existing railway line over Brisbane Water to provide a safe and dedicated link for people walking and riding between the two areas.

“Gosford has amazing potential and revitalising the waterfront into a vibrant destination linking the city and its surrounds is a key part of this picture.

“The Central Coast community made almost 3,500 submissions last year when asked about their vision for the Gosford waterfront.

“The results were clear: the majority want to see more places to walk and cycle, so I am delighted our Government will soon begin work on bringing the community’s vision to life,” Minister for the Central Coast David Harris said.

“Our vision is to transform the Gosford waterfront into a vibrant destination, and a brand new walkway will let families, visitors and locals soak up the view on the journey between Gosford and Point Clare.

“We want to unlock Gosford’s potential and this project is a vital step in reconnecting the community with the waterfront while boosting local businesses and strengthening local tourism opportunities,” Minister for Lands and Property Steve Kamper said.

Project concept image (source: Hunter and Central Coast Development Corporation)

The new boardwalk is planned to connect Goodaywang Reserve in Point Clare to Grahame Park at Gosford waterfront.

Plans unveiled by the State Government involve connecting the boardwalk into an enhanced public domain along the waterfront from Grahame Park to the Gosford Scout Hall, with additional works to include a new waterfront cafe.

The investment into the revitalisation of the Gosford waterfront precinct is part of the Minns Labor Government’s commitment to building better communities on the Central Coast, helping deliver the amenities locals can enjoy now and into the future.

“Almost exactly a year ago, I stood alongside our community in launching a petition calling on this project to be delivered and I am thrilled to see this vision become a reality.

“This investment provides a vital connection for our growing community to our spectacular natural landscape through active recreation as our city continues to grow.

“When completed, this pathway will be a popular focal point for our community, where workers, visitors and leisure seekers can enjoy spectacular views across the Brisbane Water and the Central Coast.

“This project is about connecting our community, expanding our connection to our beautiful waterways and providing a gathering place for our whole community to enjoy,” Member for Gosford Liesl Tesch said.

Source: NSW Government – Media Releases; NSW Government – Hunter and Central Coast Development Corporation