SAP draft master plan to go on public exhibition in 2023

A meeting was recently held with the NSW Department of Planning and community members to discuss the town’s Special Activation Precinct.

“The NSW government has committed over $1 billion to deliver Special Activation Precincts that will create jobs, attract businesses and investors, support local industries and fuel economic development across regional NSW,” said a spokesperson for the Department of Regional NSW.

“The Narrabri Special Activation Precinct draft master plan is progressing.

“This year, the investigation area was surveyed, and workshops were held with Narrabri Shire Council and technical experts to inform the development of the draft master plan, which considers noise, odour, transport, flooding, biodiversity and heritage issues.

“In May, four different plans were presented to landowners and the business community, which have now been narrowed down to one.

“The NSW government met with these stakeholders in mid-November to present the preferred draft plan, which:
– Considers the Narrabri Inland Port as the precinct’s Hub.
– Proposes to extend the precinct to the west of Bohena Creek for more intensive uses.
– Improves connections between the town centre and the rest of Narrabri.
– Considers where land can be released for new housing developments that are not flood-prone.
– Proposes new areas for light industry.

The NSW government said it is working to confirm the SAP boundary and to exhibit the draft master plan next year.

“To date, our engagement has targeted landowners and the business community.

“Once the draft master plan is on exhibition, a wide range of engagement activities will commence so the broader community can provide their feedback.”

The department said the plans would not be published until they are put on public exhibition next year.

“The Narrabri Special Activation Precinct is still in the master planning stage, and the precinct boundary and maps will not be finalised until the draft master plan goes on public exhibition in 2023.

“The department will continue engagement with the community until the public release of the draft master plan.

“A funding decision for the Narrabri precinct will follow the release of the final master plan.”

Department representatives at the briefing said it was important the community showed support for the SAP project, and there were discussions with community members and business owners about it being a ‘massive opportunity’ for the region.

The potential social benefits of the project, including health, education and housing, were also discussed.

Chamber president Russell Stewart said chamber has a strong relationship with the SAP planning team, and there is an offer to hold another public information session if required.