Central Coast Council is inviting community members to help shape future safety improvements between Gosford and Erina Creek, with a survey now open for feedback.
The $2 million project will be delivered in honour of Audrey Griffin, and is funded by the NSW Government, as part of the reVITALise – Legacy Grant. The project will focus on practical, community-led placemaking improvements that help people feel safer and more confident moving through the area.
Council is encouraging residents, visitors, students, workers and business owners to share their experiences, identify safety concerns and suggest improvements between Gosford and Erina Creek corridor.
Central Coast Mayor, John McNamara said everyone should feel safe using public spaces in Gosford and Erina Creek, day or night.
“The loss of Audrey Griffin has been deeply felt across our community and this project is an opportunity to listen, learn and work together on practical improvements that help people feel safer and more confident in these spaces,” Mayor McNamara said.
“As Gosford continues to grow as a vibrant regional city, it’s important that our public spaces are welcoming, connected and easy to move through, whether you’re a resident, student, worker or visitor.
“I would like to thank the NSW Government for investing in this important project for our community.
“The most important part of this project is hearing directly from the people who use these spaces. I encourage everyone to share their experiences and ideas through the online survey.”
Member for Gosford Liesl Tesch said:
“Our community has been shaken by the tragic death of Audrey Griffin and has been clear in the need for safety upgrades on the Central Coast.
“This investment will support Council to deliver key improvements in and around East Gosford and the Gosford CBD and will help create safer public spaces for women and girls.
“This funding comes directly from the advocacy work of Audrey’s friends and family, working collaboratively with the NSW Government to create a safer community for all.”
Council Director Community and Recreation Services, Melanie Smith said lived experience would be at the heart of the project.
“Women, young people and people who use these spaces after dark will play an important role in helping shape future improvements in Gosford and Erina Creek corridor,” Ms Smith said.
“We want to understand how people experience these areas, what works well and where they see opportunities for change.”
The project builds on feedback gathered through the NSW Government’s Safer Cities: Her Way program in 2023, where community members identified poor lighting, low activity, unclear routes and inconsistent connections as factors that can affect confidence after dark.
Council will keep the community informed throughout the project, with regular updates on progress, key decisions and how community feedback is shaping outcomes.
Community members can share their feedback by searching ‘Gosford to Erina Creek project’ at YourVoiceOurCoast.com
For more information or to make an enquiry about the project, please email GosfordtoErinaCreekPlaceProject@centralcoast.nsw.gov.au
The project is proudly funded by Transport for NSW as part of the reVITALise – Legacy Grant.