General News
9 July, 2025
Gilgandra Shire Council adopts key planning documents
At the June meeting of Gilgandra Shire Council (GSC), councillors resolved to adopt four key documents that will shape its direction for the next decade.
The Gilgandra Region Community Strategic Plan 2035, Delivery Program 2025/26 – 2028/29, Operational Plan 2025/26 (with associated budget, and fees and charges), and the Long-Term Financial Plan 2025/26 – 2034/35 were adopted by council.
The council meeting was presented with the final documents along with submissions received during the public feedback period from May and June 2025.
Nine community submissions and two service requests were published in the business paper, with concerns ranging from the one commercial bin collection allocation, the unsealed rural road network versus the rates paid by rural landholders, and ideas such as a town pool upgrade, fencing for the Hunter Park playground, and a greater investment in youth services.
Council’s vision informing these documents is “A Vibrant Region to Live > Enjoy > Grow that is inclusive, resilient and progressive”.
GSC states that the documents have been developed through community feedback and the priorities identified by councillors. “The community strategic plan and associated documents reflect the shared vision (above) for the region,” stated council.
“They outline council’s commitment to delivering the community’s vision and priorities, with a clear framework for service delivery, infrastructure investment, and financial sustainability.”
GSC mayor, Doug Batten, extended his thanks to the community for their contributions over the past months.
“We’ve been seeking your feedback through a variety of forums on multiple strategy development processes for quite some time now, starting back in November 2024 after the last council election,” said mayor Batten.
“I would like to thank everyone who has shared their feedback, whether through the online survey, coming along to one of many consultation sessions, responded by email, phoned council, completed a ‘Have Your Say’ form, or had a face-to-face conversation. These plans are stronger because of your collaborative involvement.”
GSC general manager, David Neeves, looks forward to the progressive operational plans for council.
“Council is proud to present these plans, developed with and for our community. With significant infrastructure projects already underway, we’re focused on delivering real outcomes that future proof our region.”
“There is a diverse program of work, with over $40 million in planned investment across the Gilgandra Region. From a $20 million upgrade to our sewer treatment plant, to new aged care staff accommodation, rural road renewals, and key health and infrastructure upgrades, this budget reflects a strong commitment to meeting the evolving needs of our community in a population Towards 5000.”
“We’re also backing our region’s liveability and economic growth, with major investment in industrial land development, green spaces, and events like Goin’ to Gil and Under the Gums.”
Some key activities from the Gilgandra Shire Council Delivery Program 2025/26 – 2028/29 include:
1. Construction of a New Sewer Treatment Plant (2025/26)
A major $20 million infrastructure investment to upgrade wastewater services in Gilgandra.
2. Rural Roads Capital Renewals (2025/26)
$4.05 million allocated for improving and maintaining local and regional road networks.
3. Development of Industrial Subdivisions
$4.54 million investment to support future economic and industry growth in the region.
4. Aged Care Workers Accommodation
$4.92 million project to construct housing for aged care staff, supporting retention and service sustainability.
5. Village Management Plans for Tooraweenah and Armatree
Beautification, infrastructure upgrades (like roads and signage), and heritage enhancements, including the Arthur Butler Aerodrome Memorial and recreational precincts.
6. Upgrade of Sewer Mains and Annual Sewer Relining Program
$340,000 allocated alongside ongoing maintenance to ensure reliable sewage infrastructure.
7. Smart Water Meter Implementation and Water Fluoridation Project
$475,000 to improve water usage tracking and promote sustainability. $130,000 allocated to introduce fluoridation to the town water supply, supporting improved dental health outcomes.
8. CBD Master Plan and Strategy
$415,000 project to revitalise Gilgandra’s town centre, including place-making and accessibility improvements.
9. Construction of Warren Road Medical Precinct
$1.43 million investment expanding health infrastructure in partnership with RFDS.
10. Youth and Community Services Expansion
Activation of Gilgandra Youth Club, swimming pool, fitness centre, and enhanced youth programs.
11. Implementation of the Gilgandra Region Health Vision
Broad initiatives to improve medical services, telehealth access, and attract/retain healthcare professionals.
12. Windmill Walk Stage Two Design
$583,000 towards extending and enhancing one of Gilgandra’s scenic and recreational walkways.
13. Cultural and Heritage Precinct Development
Implementation of the Gilgandra Cultural Precinct Strategic Plan and promotion of Coo-ee Heritage Centre.
14. Green Space and Active Transport Strategies
Includes path networks, public recreation areas, and promotion of healthy living environments.
15. Implementation of the Castlereagh Country Drought Plan
$250,000 joint regional initiative to build climate resilience and secure sustainable development.
The community can view the adopted documents at council’s website.
