Council endorses community-focused strategy

Redland City Council has endorsed two community-centric documents designed to enhance the city’s livability and create more grassroots opportunities for residents across Redlands Coast.

The Stronger Communities Strategy and Young People’s Action Plan 2024-27 are aligned with Council’s corporate plan, which sets the long-term vision and goals for the city.

Mayor Karen Williams said the Stronger Communities Strategy provided a strategic framework for the planning and delivery of programs and initiatives that would strengthen the social fabric of Redlands Coast.

“Council’s vision is to ensure our city has resilient and inclusive communities where residents of all ages, abilities and cultures feel safe, connected and supported,” Cr Williams said.

“This strategy has four key pillars, one of which is about working together to forge strong and enduring partnerships that will help us achieve great outcomes for Redlands Coast.

“There is also a focus on ensuring residents are able to actively participate in a variety of meaningful social and civic activities, which is a direct response to community feedback.

“Another key theme is ensuring the unique character and livability of Redlands Coast is preserved and enhanced through placemaking, planning and management of community assets.”

Cr Williams said the Young People’s Action Plan was an important document that would continue Council’s work supporting the city’s more than 24,000 residents aged 12-24.

“The vision is to build safe and self-reliant communities that provide our young people with access to social infrastructure and services, housing options and welcoming places,” Cr Williams said.

“Three thematic goals are incorporated in the Action Plan, including creating, promoting and fostering access, inclusion and participation opportunities.

“We have said many times before that we don’t want our young people to be our greatest export, and this action plan is designed to allow more youths to make Redlands Coast their home long-term.”

Council conducted a community engagement exercise in 2023 to help inform the intent of both documents.

“Residents and groups representing various cross sections of the community participated in the consultation process,” Cr Williams said.

“Council has taken steps to incorporate actions to address issues raised during the community engagement period and these have been reflected in the documents adopted today.

“Both provide a platform from which Council can continue building on the themes identified, in line with the Our Future Redlands corporate plan.”

Ends