Let me be clear - I'm not pro-developers - I am pro-common sense. With the region set to house 4,000 more people over the next 15 years, development is inevitable. Instead of demonising developers, it’s time we take a practical approach - one that sees them as partners in shaping our future, not adversaries.

This isn’t about blame. Land is being sold, and surveyors are already marking the next housing estates. But developers are the ones who will build the homes for this growing population. If we resist the change and push them away, we risk losing control over how that development happens. Instead, we should walk side by side with developers to ensure the outcomes benefit everyone.

Developers play a critical role in creating housing and infrastructure, but if we treat them as the problem, we lose the opportunity to influence the process. By working together, farmers, residents, and developers can find a balance that preserves our region's character while meeting the housing needs of the future.

We have to face the reality that more people are coming to the area, but instead of seeing developers as the problem, we should see them as part of the solution. If we work together, we can make sure the outcomes benefit the community as a whole.”

Rather than fighting against change, we should embrace the chance to shape it in ways that protect what makes this region special. Developers aren’t going anywhere, and the demand for housing is only growing. By collaborating, we can ensure the best outcomes for everyone - housing that works for the community and development that respects the land.

The truth is that growth is coming whether we like it or not. But how that growth unfolds? That’s something we can influence. Let’s use common sense and work with developers to ensure we get the future we deserve, not just the one we’re handed.

This is an opportunity for developers to focus on building trust by addressing the following key areas:

1. Transparency: Developers should openly communicate their plans, timelines, and how their projects align with the community's long-term vision. They should be clear about the benefits their developments will bring, such as improved infrastructure, community spaces, and environmental sustainability measures.

2. Community engagement: A developer who listens is a developer who earns trust. Advertorials should emphasise their commitment to engaging with local residents, addressing concerns, and incorporating community feedback into their projects. They could highlight past examples of successful collaboration with local communities.

3. Sustainability: Given the growing importance of environmental responsibility, developers should focus on how they are incorporating sustainable practices into their projects. This includes responsible land use, energy-efficient buildings, green spaces, and efforts to minimise their environmental impact.

4. Contribution to local economy: Developers should explain how their projects will create jobs, support local businesses, and contribute to the local economy. Showing that their developments aren’t just housing but part of a broader economic strategy can help build trust.

5. Preserving local identity: Residents often fear that new developments will strip the community of its character. Developers should emphasise how their projects will respect the local culture, landscape, and history, ensuring the community’s identity is preserved.

6. Long-term commitment: Trust grows when people feel developers are invested in the community for the long term. Developers should highlight their long-term plans to stay engaged, maintain their developments, and ensure ongoing benefits for the community.

If developers focus on these areas in their advertorials, they can foster a relationship of trust with the community by demonstrating that they are partners in building a better future, not just profit-driven outsiders.