City of Coffs Harbour Council’s latest report card has shown it took an average of 81 days to assess Development Applications in the second quarter of this financial year – well ahead of the State Government’s 94-day target for the region.
The Quarterly Progress Report for October to December (Q2) 2025 tracks the Council’s execution across a wide range of metrics tracked against the Operational Plan for the current financial year.
As at 31 December, 177 of the City’s 270 Operational Plan projects were listed as being ‘on track’. Of the remainder, 32 have already been completed, 35 are experiencing a minor or major disruption, and 26 are on hold or yet to begin.
Capital works completed in Q2 include construction of the Arthur St water main ($769,287), the Melaleuca Avenue footbridge and path upgrade at Woolgoolga ($448,288) and the Emerald Beach Reserve upgrade which included a new playground ($830,253).
“The Lowanna Playground Renewal project ($252,843) was another highlight in the run to Christmas. The community now has a modern and fit-for-purpose play space that is accessible with the inclusion of a connecting footpath,” said Mayor, Nikki Williams.
“Quarterly Reports show the community how the City is delivering on the things which matter, as well as shedding light on areas where there’s challenge.”
The Council’s assessment of Development Applications was a standout, coming in at an average of 81 days – well ahead of the Minister’s Statement of Expectations Order for Coffs Harbour which sits at 94 days.
The City’s commercial units also enjoyed considerable success.
“The Coffs Harbour Laboratory reported revenue growth of more than eight per cent while our holiday parks experienced a 50 per cent growth in online bookings,” said Business Services Director, Steve Bayliss.
Cultural facilities recorded some serious foot traffic in the three-month window:
- 7,035 at the Jetty Memorial Theatre
- 9,992 visits to Yarrila Arts Museum; and
- 159,658 physical visits to the City’s libraries.
“These quarterly reports show how we’re tracking against the key pillars of our Community Strategic Plan. For the ratepayers, it’s a snapshot in time of how we are delivering projects and services while it’s also insightful for us to evaluate organisational performance,” said Council General Manager, Murray Wood.
The Progress Report is accompanied by the required Budget Review Statement for the quarter.
“The revised consolidated budget position to December is a net surplus of $31.4 million and an operating surplus before capital revenue of $9.8 million,” said Council Chief Financial Officer, Amy Mott.
“The City’s General Fund improved to a $100,000 surplus.”
