Document outlines big year ahead for Gunnedah Shire

17 April, 2020

The shape of the next year for Gunnedah Shire has been mapped out in a blueprint now open for public submissions.

The 2017-2021 Delivery Program and 2020/21 Operational Plan for Gunnedah Shire Council outlines how Council delivers on the strategic objectives outlined in the over-arching Community Strategic Plan.

Council is now in the final year of that program, with the 2020/21 Operational Plan and Budget setting out the actions Council will take to deliver on the community’s vision for our Shire.

Gunnedah Shire Council General Manager Eric Groth said the Operational Plan would unfold amid the global uncertainty of the COVID-19 pandemic.

“This Operational Plan is being prepared in unprecedented times; on the back of the worst drought in local history and pandemic (COVID‐19) having terrible impacts across the globe,” Mr Groth said.

“Despite this, the Operational Plan is a strong one, continuing on the significant achievements of the past year, and laying out the foundation for better infrastructure and a great future for Gunnedah Shire.

“This Operational Plan not only demonstrates that Council remains Fit for the Future, but does so on the back of significant community resilience-strengthening initiatives and amidst the response to the COVID‐19 pandemic.

“This is a delivery on the vision Council shares with the community as outlined in the Community Strategic Plan.”

The 2020‐21 financial year sees the continuation of a substantial and accelerated delivery of capital works totalling $23 million. This includes:

• $8.6 million for renewal of sealed rural roads • $2.6 million for new and renewed water supply infrastructure • $2 million for new and upgraded sewer works • $1.8 million for replacement of plant and equipment • $1.14 million for renewal and upgrade of Council’s depot facilities • $741,221 for renewal of unsealed rural roads • $549,849 for renewal of urban roads • $439,437 for kerb and gutter renewal • $320,225 for Regional Road renewal and upgrade • $250,000 in new and renewed saleyard assets • $165,846 for new and renewed parks and sporting ground assets.

This is on top of Council’s annual operation and maintenance programs and the roll‐out of the $3.2 million Community Resilience Program.

Major works in the capital works program include:

• $9.8 million for Clifton Road Upgrade over 2 years • $8.4 million for completion of Koala Park and Education Centre • $8.2 million for completion of Grain Valley Road Upgrade • $3 million for completion of Mystery Road Upgrade.

The 2017-2021 Delivery Program and 2020/21 Operational Plan for Gunnedah Shire Council is now on public exhibition, with submissions closing 5pm on Thursday, May 14, 2020. It is available for viewing on Council’s website at www.infogunnedah.com.au

As well as the budget for the coming financial year, the Operational Plan includes scheduled rates and charges. Should you have any enquiries, please contact Council on 02 6740 2100.

ENDS

Media contact: Eliza Gallen (02) 6740 2100.