Ordinary Council Meeting Summary – 29 April 2024

Ordinary Council Meeting Summary - 29 April 2024

Published on 30 April 2024

Upper Hunter Shire Council April Ordinary Meeting Highlights

Upper Hunter Shire Council held its April Ordinary Council meeting on 29 April 2024, discussing a range of significant projects and initiatives that will shape the future of the region. Key agenda items included the Draft Delivery and Operational Plan, the Goulburn River Solar Farm Project, a new Memorandum of Understanding with Newcastle City Council, and the Murrurundi Water Strategy.

Council Endorses Draft Delivery Program and Operational Plan

Council endorsed the draft Delivery Program 2021/2022 to 2024/2025 and Operational Plan 2024/2025, setting them for public exhibition from 2 May to 31 May 2024. Community engagement sessions are scheduled across various townships including Aberdeen, Cassilis, Merriwa, Scone, Murrurundi, and Moonan Flat to gather feedback and refine the plans. The plans address critical infrastructure projects with a focus on road maintenance, flood restoration works, and capital expenditures totalling $66 million.

Goulburn River Solar Farm Project Moves Forward

Council approved entering into a planning agreement with Goulburn River Fund Pty Ltd regarding the Goulburn River Solar Farm Project. This follows a public consultation period where key environmental, social, and operational concerns were addressed. The agreement outlines commitments to community and infrastructure enhancements, ensuring sustainable development and community benefits.

New Partnership with City of Newcastle

A Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) was endorsed between Upper Hunter Shire Council and the City of Newcastle, aimed at enhancing regional collaboration and shared services. This MoU facilitates knowledge sharing, joint advocacy, and resource pooling to address growing regional challenges and opportunities.

Murrurundi Water Strategy Approved

In a significant decision, Council agreed to continue with the Scone to Murrurundi pipeline as the primary water supply source and endorsed the decommissioning of redundant water assets in Murrurundi. This includes transforming the Murrurundi Dam area into a recreational space, with plans to seek grant funding for developing a comprehensive Masterplan.

Support for Renewable Energy Assessments

A notice of motion was passed for Council to seek funding support for assessing and planning renewable energy projects within the Upper Hunter Shire Local Government Area (LGA). This initiative aims to address the local impacts of state-significant renewable energy projects and ensure the community benefits from these developments.

Council's decisions reflect a commitment to sustainable development, community engagement, and strategic partnerships. These initiatives are expected to significantly impact the economic, social, and environmental landscape of the Upper Hunter region.

For more information on the meeting, follow this link