Cairns Regional Council says its consultation process for the development of a Community Plan for the area is well under way. The plan aims to create a "clear, vibrant community vision for the future of the region."

Mayor Val Schier said community planning is a method for capturing the ideas, aspirations and values of residents to help Council plan for the future development of the region.

“The new Local Government Act requires Queensland Councils to develop long term community plans that include economic development, environmental management, social wellbeing and good governance,” Cr Schier said.

“Council has been engaging with the broader community at a variety of events over the past six months, asking people to describe their vision for the future for the next 20 years."

Cr Schier said Council had received feedback from participants at a number of events including the Cairns and Mossman Shows, a baby welcoming ceremony, seniors’ lunch and at the Carnival on Collins. 

“Data collected from all the feedback will be collated and inform a draft Community Plan. The draft will be up for further comment from the community as part of the next step in the journey of finalising a formal Community Plan,” she said.

A number of Community Plan consultation sessions are scheduled to be held including the following in our area to be attended by Division 10 Councillor, Julia Leu:

• Diwan Sports Centre, Tee Tree Road, Cow Bay on  Monday 29 November from 10.30 – 12pm
• Council Administration Office, Front Street, Mossman on Tuesday 14 December from 9.30am – 11.30am
• Port Douglas Community Hall, Mowbray Stree, Port Douglas on Tuesday 14 December from 2pm - 4pm.

Cr Leu said the plan will be comprehensive, covering economic, environmental, social, and cultural issues, and the consultation sessions will be an interactive workshop format.

"It's a ten year plan and will help determine how we channel funds into areas of priority. I encourage everyone who's interested to come along.

"It's a chance to have a say in what sort of place we really want for the next generation," Cr Leu said.

Have you been involved in the consultation process? Let us know what you think are the considerations for the future?