MEDIA RELEASE - Ambitious plan to deliver on shared vision for the future of the Sutherland Shire

Sutherland Shire Council has outlined an ambitious plan to meet the future needs of a growing community, with the endorsement this week of Council’s Delivery Program 2022-2026 and Operational Plan 2024/25.

This comprehensive suite of documents details Council’s commitment to delivering the services and infrastructure on which local residents and businesses rely, reinforced by a record $80.1m investment in capital works projects across the Sutherland Shire over the next financial year.

Sutherland Shire Mayor, Councillor Carmelo Pesce said he was proud of the work undertaken by Council staff in delivering plans that were robustly informed by the wishes of the community, and which are not only set to deliver the essential infrastructure local residents rely upon, but also provides a renewed focus on environmental issues and urban planning.

“The plans endorsed by Council this week clearly outline our commitment to those we serve, and provide a sound roadmap for Council in delivering essential roads, traffic, footpaths and stormwater infrastructure,” Mayor Pesce said.

“Just as importantly these documents spell out how we are continuing to invest heavily in upgrades to some of the Sutherland Shire’s major sports facilities and community spaces, as well as the work we will undertake in planning for the future of our town centres.

“Our staff have done an exceptional job once again in working with the community to ensure that we are addressing their needs and tackling the issues that matter to them, as we look to meet the future needs of all those we serve.”

Among the major capital works commitments outlined in Council’s endorsed Delivery Program 2022-2026 and Operational Plan 2024/25 are:

  • $5.78 million for the continued construction of the Cronulla Town Centre Stage 2 upgrade and playground
  • $10.48 million for the Community and Operational Buildings upgrade, new and renewal program
  • $5.1 million for the Road Pavement renewal program
  • $13.12 million for the upgrade and renewal of sports facilities (including Seymour Shaw Reserve).
  • $9.2 million for the new Kirrawee Community Hub Library
  • An additional budget of $1 million per year has been allocated for Drainage and Water Quality New / Upgrade Program in 2025/26 – 2027/28 for construction of additional drainage infrastructure to minimise nuisance flooding and improve water quality

Sutherland Shire Mayor, Councillor Carmelo Pesce, said the Delivery Program 2022-2026 and Operational Plan 2024/25 was squarely aimed at ensuring Council continued to deliver upon the needs of local residents, while anticipating future challenges our community may face.

“We know that local people care deeply about the communities in which they live, and ensuring that services and infrastructure keep pace with growth in population,” Mayor Pesce said.

“That’s why staff will be working hard to finalise place plans for our major town centres of Miranda, Sutherland-Kirrawee and Caringbah, and why we will continue to advocate for improved public transport from bus and rail operators to meet the needs of our community as it continues to grow.

“We’re also focused on delivering the next stage of the Cronulla Plaza upgrade, completing the Gymea Bay Reserve and Baths Masterplan and upgrades, and completing a Public Domain Plan for Jannali Town Centre.”

Mayor Pesce said Council was similarly committed to addressing environmental issues of concern to local residents, with plans in place to meet the key environmental challenges faced by our community.

“Our stunning natural environment is something that we know local residents cherish, and we’re committed to doing our bit to preserve it for future generations,” Mayor Pesce said.

“Council will continue to pursue opportunities to drive an increase in use of renewable energy – both as part of our operations, and throughout the community – as well as developing our Catchment and Waterways Strategy and Implementation Plan which will safeguard the health of our environment.

“These documents set out our commitment to ensuring the Sutherland Shire remains a great place to live, work and visit through the delivery of quality services and infrastructure, in a financially sustainable way.”