A great place to live, so let’s keep it that way
The New South Wales Government’s long-term draft strategy tells Far North Coast residents what they already know — that this is a great place to live.
That’s why the region’s population has increased by 2500 people a year every year since 2001.
The Government predicts the region’s population will increase by 60,000 by 2031.
Ballina Shire can expect its population to increase by at least 20,000, according to projected housing figures. The State Government says Ballina Shire now has 16,720 dwellings. Single dwellings are expected to increase by 5300 and multi-unit developments by 3100, giving the shire 8400 new dwellings by 2031.
It’s inevitable that this region will continue to grow, and this growth should be welcomed. It will mean more jobs for our young people and continued employment for many who might have had to look elsewhere without continued growth.
But what the Government must do is ensure that this growth is well-managed, that housing expansion is done without harm to our environment, and the essential services such as health grow with the population.
As we all know, this is a great region to live in. Let’s not spoil it.
