Uralla Shire Council has released its draft Renewable Energy Action Plan for public feedback.
The Plan outlines how Council, industry and government can work together to manage the anticipated impacts from an influx of temporary renewable energy workers at peak construction times, and ensure the Shire is prepared.
The increased workforce is likely to place pressure on housing, water, roads, services and the natural environment. At the same time, the region stands to benefit from major investment, new jobs, and expanded training and economic opportunities.
The vision is that Uralla remains a thriving rural Shire where the renewable energy transition strengthens community life, supports local livelihoods, and protects the Shire’s unique identity.
Mayor Robert Bell said Uralla would be at the epicentre of construction activity, so it was essential we started planning early to protect community values, protect the land and support local livelihoods.
“This is not a plan for or against renewable energy. It’s a plan to make sure development happens with the community, not to the community. Our residents have been clear: Uralla’s character, farmland and way of life must be protected, and any development must deliver lasting value for our Shire,” Mayor Bell said.
The Renewable Energy Action Plan is based on feedback received from more than 150 residents who took part in interviews, workshops, school sessions and surveys.
Residents said they wanted timely, factual information and more transparent engagement from government and developers. Keeping the community informed and united is a core priority as change accelerates.
“The community wants development that respects farmland, supports biosecurity, avoids key habitats and uses local ecological knowledge. Renewable energy should leave the environment better, not worse,” Mayor Bell said.
“The community is worried about rental increases and housing shortages. New temporary workforce accommodation must not displace locals and should deliver lasting benefits where possible.”
Residents want local businesses to benefit through procurement, workforce spending and opportunities for new industries, but they also want to avoid boom-and-bust cycles or pressures that push out small businesses.
Infrastructure investment must meet both the short-term construction surge and long-term community needs.
The renewable energy transition can create long-term skilled jobs. Stronger school-to-work pathways, apprenticeships and training opportunities are needed so young people can build careers here, not leave the region.
The community wants developers and government to support expanded local health services, mental health support and community safety measures.
Peak construction could increase local water demand, creating an opportunity to identify long-term water solutions that protect households, agriculture and the environment.
Council is already acting on several priority areas, progressing temporary workforce accommodation options, long-term water planning, and waste and recycling solutions.
“The Renewable Energy Action Plan will help us keep working proactively with government, industry and neighbouring councils – and, importantly, with our community,” Mayor Bell said.
Residents can read the report and submit their comment via Uralla Shire Council’s “Have Your Say” website: Draft Uralla Shire Renewable Energy Action Plan | Your Say Uralla Shire
A further report will be prepared for Council summarising submissions received after public exhibition of the draft plan, at which point Council will be asked to adopt the updated plan.
Media Release: Uralla Shire Council
