This includes $79 million worth of new residential housing and an additional $13 million worth of alterations and additions to homes, according to a report to the July council meeting.

Council's director of liveable communities, Paul De Szell, said this follows the approval of $262 million of development in the 2020-21 financial year.

"The MidCoast is experiencing increased interest from developers and those wishing to move to the region, often from more metropolitan areas, as a result of the impacts of the COVID pandemic," Mr De Szell said.

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The ability for many professionals to work from home in an affordable pristine locality makes the MidCoast a desirable relocation option with an easy commute to both Newcastle and Sydney - this trend has been reflected in increased property prices across the region.

Development approvals also show locals are spending money on renovations and additions to their homes, which has a flow on effect on the local economy.

"We all know that the last 12 months has put a stop to travel for the majority of the community, and these figures show people are investing what they may have spent on holidays into their homes, which also has a positive impact on our building industry."

As a proactive response to this trend in development and a shortage of land supply, council, at its July meeting, approved a Settlement Expansion and Redevelopment Opportunities Analysis Report which aims to ensure council is prepared and ready to act to support potential new housing and business opportunities.

The document identifies a range of areas around the MidCoast where future expansion may happen, in the short term (one to five years), medium term ( six-10 years) or long term (10+ years) based on the rate of expected growth.

"This document provides the community and developers with certainty about where residential development can occur," Mr De Szell said.

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