Project Type: Place Activation Strategy + Stakeholder Engagement
Year: 2025
Client: Hunter Central Coast Development Corporation (HCCDC)
Reactivate Consulting has been engaged by the Hunter Central Coast Development Corporation (HCCDC) to lead the development of a Place Activation Strategy for the Gosford Waterfront, a transformative precinct at the heart of the Central Coast. As one of the region’s most prominent waterfront locations, the project represents a critical opportunity to redefine Gosford’s civic and cultural identity, strengthen connections between the city and the water, and create a vibrant destination that reflects the aspirations of local communities.
Our role focuses on shaping an activation framework that positions the waterfront as both a local gathering place and a regional destination. This involves exploring opportunities for events, festivals, and cultural programming, alongside strategies for embedding long-term activation infrastructure within the evolving public realm. By drawing on the unique coastal character of Gosford, as well as precedents from leading waterfront precincts across Australia and internationally, the strategy will highlight pathways to deliver a lively, inclusive, and resilient urban waterfront.
A central part of the project is stakeholder and community engagement. Reactivate is delivering workshops, one-on-one conversations, and broader engagement activities to ensure the vision is informed by diverse voices, like from the residents and businesses to cultural organisations and government stakeholders. This engagement will not only capture community priorities and local knowledge but will also help to build early partnerships that will be vital to the success of future activations.
The Place Activation Strategy will provide HCCDC with a clear framework for programming, management, and delivery that connects Gosford’s emerging identity with its public spaces. It will guide how temporary activations, cultural initiatives, and long-term uses can work together to establish the waterfront as an active, welcoming, and enduring part of the city.