With a library and theatre in the centre of town, Mr Maher believes the Beardy Street Mall would be revitalised.

“The Mall needs rejuvenation, that was part of the precinct plan.

“To build firstly a library, and then a theatre in the CBD.

“My own view is that’s where we’ll get the most bang for our buck.”

Mr Maher said he believes bringing the two facilities to Cinders Lane would have a flow-on effect for businesses in town.

“The other great benefit, and this was part of the precinct plan, was that the whole area would double as a conference centre,” he said.

Living in Armidale for 37 years, and serving on Council for three terms, Mr Maher said he believes his experience would give him a head start.

“I believe I can contribute significantly to the Armidale Regional Council,” he said.

“I have a wealth of experience.

“I also have vision, I believe that Armidale is a beautiful city and we’re not realising our potential.

“I’ve also got significant energy and commitment – I have a good work ethic.”

Mr Maher said as a councillor, he would look forward to working cooperatively with new blood to see development for Armidale.

Developing the industrial land near the airport and providing incentives for industry are also on his to-do list.

“We’ve got to do something about employment,” Mr Maher said.

“We need to do something to provide people employment and a quality life in Armidale.”

The land needs to be prepared and ready to be sold, and Mr Maher would like to see that happen if he was elected to Council.

“Let’s get some people moving into the area,” he said.

In Guyra, Mr Maher said he wants to see improved access to water to develop agricultural industry.

The Council election is on September 9, a full list of councillors can be found here.