This 20-year-plan for the MNC's transport and roads is currently taking suggestions

Big changes are currently being planned for the Mid North Coast’s roads and public transport, with the region preparing for future population growth and strain over the next 20 years.

👀 What it looks like: A state government initiative – called the Strategic Regional Integrated Transport Plan – is currently open for community comment and will allow the public to suggest upgrades, repairs, and improvements for the region’s infrastructure. 

• The Strategic Regional Integrated Transport Plan (SRITP) for the North Coast is currently open for community comment until the end of the year.

• Whether it's a suggestion of a roundabout at an intersection you believe is dangerous, or desire for increased public transport in your town, members of the public can provide feedback to help shape the future of how the region is connected.

🤷 How it works: The state government has set up an online portal where feedback is being encouraged from those living and working across the region – as well as the people using the transport network. 

• To share your experience, challenges and suggestions you can make a submission or comment on a particular area on an interactive map. 

📍What does this mean for locals? The plan’s goal is to listen to feedback from locals to improve private and public transport in the region. Once approved, the plan will impact how our communities are connected and our local economies are affected.

🗓️ When will it happen? These plans are happening across the state, with some already approved. The North Coast’s plan is set to be delivered in early 2026. It is currently in its community consultation stage.

🗣️ What are people saying? One resident wrote into the Mid North Coaster, saying the plan “has flow on effects with future sustainable housing, more businesses moving here, and young people having more of an opportunity to contribute to our society”.

• “The more people who make a submission or drop ideas that matter to them on the map, the more likely the NSW Government will prioritise us as a community going forward in their final SRITP plan,” said Tom, from Crescent Head.

What has already been suggested? Residents have been leaving comments via the interactive map on the NSW Government website.

• One commenter said the entrance and exit to the Big Banana in Coffs Harbour is “very dangerous”, especially during holiday periods.

• Another comment in Urunga asked for an on-demand bus service to address social isolation and improve access to services.

• A Light Rail in South West Rocks is another suggestion, along with bike lanes and foot paths along Point Plomer Rd near Crescent Head.

Thumbnail credit: Unsplash.