Indigo Shire Council will go to tender in the coming weeks to secure the services of an experienced strategic planning consultant to work on the development of a long-term housing and township growth strategy.
The project, known as the Indigo Shire Settlement Strategy, will shape how the shire's townships grow and develop over the next 25 years.
Mayor, Sophie Price, says the current planning framework was developed over two decades ago and doesn't reflect the realities faced today.
"The devastating October 2022 floods, increasing bushfire risks, and climate change impacts have shown us that we need a fresh approach to planning our communities' future," Cr Price says.
"This comprehensive strategy will guide orderly growth across all our townships through to 2051, ensuring we can unlock land for housing and economic development while keeping our communities safe and resilient."
Thanks to state government funding, Council will embark on an 18-month journey to develop the strategy. Working alongside the successful consultant and Council's strategic planning team, the project will involve reviewing and updating framework plans for each township, conducting neighbourhood character assessments, examining opportunities and constraints across the Shire, and developing implementation plans for incorporating changes into the Planning Scheme.
The work builds on recent studies Council has completed, including the Municipal Bushfire Hazard Assessment and Land Supply and Demand Assessment, as well as updated flood studies from the North-East Catchment Management Authority.
Cr Price says community input would be crucial throughout the process. "This isn't something we're doing in isolation. We'll be engaging with our community and key stakeholders at every stage, ensuring the final strategy reflects local needs, aspirations, and knowledge."
"The Settlement Strategy represents a significant step forward for Indigo Shire. It will help us balance growth with environmental protection, support economic development and recovery, and build stronger, more resilient communities that can adapt to future challenges.
"We'll keep the community informed as this project progresses, and I encourage everyone to participate when consultation opportunities arise."
