You can have a say in shaping the future of Bairnsdale in a new project to guide the development of our main commercial, residential, community and cultural centre to 2050 and beyond.

East Gippsland Shire Council will be seeking the community’s input into what kind of regional city they want for their children and grandchildren to live work and play.

Council is inviting community members to register their interest in the project, either by being part of a community panel, which will help to guide the project, or a community online forum to gather ideas.

The ‘Bairnsdale 2050’ project has been funded by the Victorian Government and Council, to take a fresh look at the opportunities for the town’s growth and prosperity.

East Gippsland Shire Council Mayor, Cr Mark Reeves said the project is an exciting opportunity to look at what kind of place Bairnsdale needs to be in a changing world a generation from now.

“On current projections, Bairnsdale will be home to another 10,000 people and provide an additional 3,500 jobs in 2050,” Cr Reeves said.

“Over the next 25 years, Bairnsdale will face a range of complex challenges including sustaining population growth, generating new employment opportunities, supporting liveability and inclusivity, and planning for a changing climate.

“Itis vital that we have a roadmap to the future for a sustainable city with economic vitality, great places to live and a strong healthy community.”

Running over a nine-month period, the Bairnsdale 2050 project will look at needs for future housing and neighbour hoods, transport, industry and commerce and to improve the public facilities and spaces that serve the community’s needs.

It will include a focus on the opportunities to create a vibrant and thriving town centre and to build environmental sustainability into the future development of Bairnsdale.

“There will be lots of opportunities for the community to be involved and we encourage those who have a special interest in the long-term future of Bairnsdale to put in an expression of interest for the community panel or simply register for the online forum,” Cr Reeves said.

Further information is available on the Council website or by calling 5153 9500.

Media Enquiries: Communications Team – (03) 5153 9500

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