Help shape council’s plan for the future

The plan identifies the community’s main priorities and vision for the future, it is the blueprint for the region’s future and outlines the identified vision, priori- ties, and actions to achieve the vision.

GSC mayor Doug Batten said council is keen to hear from the community and take on their suggestions to ensure the plans reflect the community’s priorities.

“A round of community meetings to discuss the plan will be held over coming weeks and we encourage your attendance and input as members of the community.

“Over the past five years, we have been working towards achieving the community’s priorities and build- ing the foundation for our future. Since 2016, we have delivered over $41 million in capital works, including significant road renewals and upgrades, replacement of four timber bridges, construction of a new works depot, new SES headquarters and construction of the Orana Living Cottages, our new purpose-built disability accommodation project,” said mayor Batten.

“GSC has also progressed the Gilgandra Activation Blueprint including local business support with Grow Gilgandra, Shop Local and BIG Ideas.

“With significant growth and major infrastructure investments on the way within the Gilgandra region, we are at a crucial point in effectively planning for growing our community and confirming our region as a great place to live, enjoy and grow,” said mayor Batten.

Council has several major projects planned for the coming term including the GIL Library Hub, comple- tion of the Gilgandra cultural precinct, implementation of the housing strategy and aero park, sewerage treat- ment plant upgrade, industrial park development and Hunter Park precinct multi-sports facility.

Mayor Batten said the CSP last had a full review in 2016 and much has changed in the region since. “The impacts of drought, floods and COVID-19 have left deep imprints on how we live our lives.

“Consultation aims to understand what the commu- nity values about living in the Gilgandra region, the strengths they recognise in the services and facilities provided by council within our community, and how they think we can build on these to address the key chal- lenges and opportunities facing our region now and into the future.”

Those insights will directly inform the review of the community strategic plan to make sure the plan for the future stays relevant and targets areas that matter most.

The existing community strategic plan and relevant strategies can be found online via the council’s website. Following consultations, a draft plan is expected to be on display through May 2022, with the final plan

adopted by June 2022.