newy.com.au – Port Stephens residents are being invited to help shape a new plan for prioritising and funding footpaths and shared pathways across the council area.
Port Stephens Council has endorsed its draft Pathways Plan for public exhibition, updating the framework established in 2016 to reflect changing community needs. The plan will guide decisions on new pathways and links within the existing network, with a focus on safer and more accessible neighbourhoods.
Mayor Leah Anderson said feedback, including responses to the 2024 Liveability Survey, showed safe pathways remained a key concern.
“When we look at community feedback from recent years, including our 2024 Liveability Survey, safe pathways are consistently highlighted as a top priority,” Mayor Anderson said.
The plan also considers the role of pathways in connecting residents with schools and essential services, supporting local businesses and helping visitors explore Port Stephens.
Under the proposed framework, pathways would be classified as either connection or destination routes. A scoring system would then be used to prioritise projects and direct available funding and resources.
Council’s Asset Section Manager John Maretich said the plan would help identify the areas most in need of new infrastructure.
“Whether it’s improving access to essential services, safe access for our kids walking to school or providing an experience like a coastal walk, pathways serve different purposes in our community,” Mr Maretich said.
“We’ve now categorised them as either a connection or a destination pathway. They have a transparent scoring system to help prioritise new projects and ensure resources and funding are directed to achieving the greatest impact.”
Submissions are open until Wednesday, 26 August 2026. Residents can read the draft plan, make a formal submission or complete a guided survey through Port Stephens Council’s current public exhibitions page.
Drop-in information sessions will also be held at Raymond Terrace Bowling Club from 5pm to 7pm on Thursday, 13 August, Medowie Community Hall from 10.30am to 12.30pm on Tuesday, 18 August, and Soldiers Point Bowling Club from 5pm to 7pm on Thursday, 20 August. Online attendance will be available for the Raymond Terrace and Soldiers Point sessions.
Each session will include a short presentation explaining how pathways are categorised and prioritised.
“Investing in new footpaths and shared pathways means investing in our future. I would encourage our community to provide us with feedback,” Mayor Anderson said.
