Yarrie Lake Road residents adjacent to the proposed Northern Inland Port have sought assurances from Narrabri Shire Council that they will be fully informed and have the opportunity for close consultation as the project proceeds through the planning phases.

Two residents, Robert Browning and Fred Browning used the public forum at Tuesday’s council meeting to call for ‘more transparency’ regarding the project.

They specifically questioned the proposed entry and exit roads to the Inland Port which they understood will come off Yarrie Lake Road.

“We feel there needs to be more transparency around this project as it affects near neighbours,” Robert Browning said.

They were supported by other residents in the public gallery.

Deputy mayor Cameron Staines moved that the agenda item relating to a change to the Local Environment Plan for the Inland Port be brought forward in the meeting so it could be discussed while the residents were present.

Councillors agreed that communication would be a priority as the planning moved ahead.

Cr Robert Kneale asked what direct ‘talking’ to affected landholders had taken place so far.

He was concerned at ‘the perception that there had been a lack of transparency’ as claimed.

“I would like to be assured that we have offered transparency.”

The general manager Stewart Todd said letters to direct neighbours of the Inland Port and offers of face to face meetings were made. See council update here.

There would be further consultation as the project was in the early stages.

“We do need to make a firm commitment that we consult with the community and make a very concerted effort,” Cr Ron Campey said.

“People are very concerned with what’s happening there.”

The mayor, Ron Campbell, reaffirmed that it was the start of the planning process.

“I am sure we can work through all the concerns. Planning is a complex set of circumstances but I am sure we can deal with its challenges.”

Cr Redding said the matter before the council, the planning proposal to amend the Local Environment Plan, was ‘the very first step towards lodging an application for a gateway determination.

A detailed consultation process would go with the proposal.

“I have no doubt it will be very transparent and everyone will have a chance to have their say and come in to the council” Cr Redding said.

Council adopted the recommendation to proceed with the proposal to amend the Local Environment Plan and forward it to the Department of Planning, Industry and Environment requesting a gateway determination.

And council will seek authorisation from the department to be the local plan making authority as the project goes forward.

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