Progress on Narrabri Place Strategy as development applications open

A 20-year-plan to develop housing in Narrabri and foster job creation has progressed, with the opening of development applications.

Applications are now able to be lodged with Narrabri Shire Council for most new developments within three defined precincts as set out in the Narrabri Place Strategy.

The rezoning proposal, developed by the NSW government in close collaboration with Narrabri Shire Council, could see at least 2100 new well-located flood free homes with a mix of detached and medium-density housing, a vibrant new city-centre and new job opportunities.

Three unique precincts have been identified in the rezoning proposal focusing on land for housing, employment uses and industrial activities. This planning approach will balance the housing and industrial needs of the region while creating a framework to boost housing and economic growth, information from the state government states.

The newly established employment lands precinct, located between the Newell Highway and Inland Rail route, will generate hundreds of new jobs within the emerging light industries and commercial business sectors. It will provide a buffer between the residential area and the Inland Port Precinct where more intensive industries are proposed. This precinct will leverage the benefits of the future Inland Rail route and create additional jobs for the Narrabri region.

Narrabri’s new rezoning proposal will help shape a thriving modernised town centre with a contemporary eat street concept to create new cafes and restaurants to add more vibrancy to the township.

The rezoning proposal also proposes new health and aged-care facilities, along with childcare spaces and potential school sites near the village centre. The rezoning proposal will shape further public infrastructure upgrades with improved sport and recreation facilities and active transport networks also proposed.

Minister for Planning and Public Spaces Paul Scully said the Narrabri rezoning proposal aims to stimulate development while creating a more liveable and connected community.

“This regional population growth will be balanced with new investment opportunities,” he said.

Minister for Regional New South Wales Tara Moriarty said more investment means more jobs for the next generation of Narrabri locals who will see their hometown transformed while retaining its much-loved charm and character.

“The Narrabri rezoning proposal is a great example of council working hand in glove with the NSW government to deliver great long-term planning outcomes for Narrabri and surrounding areas,” she said.

Member for Barwon Roy Butler welcomed the proposal as a great outcome for Narrabri.

“We have worked closely with the NSW government and council to make sure this rezoning delivers the necessary opportunities for new homes, jobs and growth in Narrabri,” he said.

“I will continue to advocate for the Narrabri community to ensure we see more opportunities come to life for our community.”

Narrabri Shire Council mayor Darrell Tiemens described the development as a milestone moment for Narrabri.

“As the second largest economy in the North West after Tamworth, we must continue to stay on the front foot—and this rezoning proposal does exactly that,” he said.

“It sets a clear, collaborative vision for our shire’s future, with well-located housing, job-generating precincts, and a revitalised town centre forming the building blocks for sustainable growth.”