Scaled back Moree SAP to still deliver massive economic boost to region

The state government has agreed to scale back plans for the Moree Special Activation Precinct following concerns from Moree Plains Shire Council about the project’s long-term financial impact.

The Minns Labor Government agreed to revise the scope of the project after the council warned that the original proposal—first introduced under the former Liberal-National government—was too large and would place a significant burden on its operating budget.

Council estimates indicated the initial infrastructure plan would have added around $2 million annually in costs, including depreciation, maintenance and staffing. In response, the government acknowledged the need for a more sustainable approach to avoid placing pressure on council finances and local ratepayers.

Under the revised plan, the precinct will be reduced from 300 hectares to 100 hectares of fully serviced government-owned land. Road infrastructure will also be scaled back from 3.3 kilometres to 1.9 kilometres.

Despite the reduction, the project is still expected to support long-term economic growth in the region. The precinct is projected to provide a 10-year supply of industrial land and create up to 4,000 jobs over 40 years across sectors including agriculture, logistics, renewable energy and food processing.

The government will continue to deliver essential infrastructure such as roads, drainage and utilities, along with planning support and business services aimed at attracting private investment.

Minister for Agriculture, Regional NSW and Western NSW Tara Moriarty said the government had listened to Moree Plains Shire Council and agreed to adjust the scope of infrastructure delivery to ensure the precinct is delivered responsibly and sustainably.

“This is a decision that ensures the project can progress without placing unnecessary financial pressure on families and businesses in the Moree region,” Ms Moriarty said.

“The government’s commitment to the Moree precinct remains and it is a major investment in the region’s future that will drive growth for generations to come. This decision will ensure we deliver it the right way.

“I want councils and communities to know that we are listening, that we are here to support regional development and not to add to cost-of-living pressures.

“Working in partnership with Moree Plains Shire Council reflects our shared commitment to securing long-term economic growth for the region.”

Moree Plains Shire mayor Susannah Pearse welcomed the changes, describing them as a positive outcome for the community.

“We are hugely grateful to the Minister and the NSW government for listening to our concerns and supporting our request to further stage the works on the Moree Special Activation Precinct,” Cr Pearse said.

“This is great news for our community.

“Our council is excited about the Moree Special Activation Precinct and its potential to attract new businesses and industries to town.

“We however need to balance that opportunity with what is in the best interests of our Moree Plains community. Whilst the upfront costs of the precinct are funded by the NSW government, the ongoing maintenance costs are funded by our ratepayers – who are grappling with the cost of living and the cost of doing business, and do not want a rate rise.

“Reducing the initial scope allows the precinct to proceed and businesses to take up the opportunity, in a way that is within council and the community’s means.

“Council remains fully committed to the long-term vision for the Special Activation Precinct, which has the potential to diversify our economy, create new jobs and bring once-in-a-generation opportunities to the region.

“I appreciate the government’s willingness to work with us to deliver the precinct in a way that is financially sustainable and genuinely supports local residents.”