Part A - Local Profile - Grenfell (Land Use/Settlement) Strategy, NSW DRAFT for Public Exhibition

Grenfell (Land Use/ Settlement) Strategy Part A – Local Profile & Background

Figure 1: Silo Art – Grenfell Commodities Site, Railway Precinct, Grenfell (2019)

Prepared for Weddin Shire Council

Date: May 2019 Version C (DRAFT for Public Exhibition)

Part A - Local Profile - Grenfell (Land Use/Settlement) Strategy, Weddin Shire NSW Table of Contents – Part A Local Profile & Background 1 SUMMARY ...... 4 2 AIM OF PROJECT ...... 5 2.1 Introduction ...... 5 2.2 Drivers / Objectives ...... 5 2.3 Integration with Adopted Land Use Strategies ...... 6 2.4 Study Area ...... 6 2.5 Indicative Process / Structure ...... 7 2.6 iPLAN PROJECTS ...... 8 2.7 Summary of Opportunities & Constraints Influencing Grenfell's Growth ...... 9 3 LOCAL PROFILE ...... 12 3.1 Location ...... 12 3.2 Demographic Trends – Weddin Shire ...... 12 3.3 Demographic Trends – Grenfell ...... 16 3.4 Estimated Projection of Grenfell's Population ...... 18 3.5 Census Data & Housing Supply Gaps ...... 18 3.6 Economics & Employment ...... 19 4 HISTORY, HERITAGE & SETTLEMENT PATTERN ...... 26 4.1 History ...... 26 4.2 Background ...... 28 4.3 Settlement Pattern - Block & Lot Size ...... 30 5 NATURAL ENVIRONMENT & HAZARDS ...... 31 5.1 Topography, Flooding & Drainage ...... 31 5.2 Mining & Extractive Industries ...... 34 5.3 Environment & Bushfire ...... 36 6 CRITICAL INFRASTRUCTURE/UTILITIES & ZONE SP2 ...... 37 6.1 Introduction ...... 37 6.2 Existing Zone SP2 Infrastructure ...... 37 6.3 General Principles/Issues ...... 37 6.4 Rail Infrastructure & Adaptive Re-Use ...... 38 6.5 State & Regional Roads ...... 41 6.6 Utility Infrastructure ...... 42 6.7 Local Roads & Town Centre Parking ...... 45 6.8 Cemeteries ...... 45 7 COMMUNITY FACILITIES & RECREATION ...... 46 7.1 Types & Locations ...... 46 7.2 Health & Aged Care ...... 46 7.3 Education & Training ...... 48 7.4 Recreation & Events ...... 48 8 PLANNING POLICY FRAMEWORK...... 50 8.1 State ...... 50 8.2 Regional ...... 56 8.3 Weddin Shire ...... 68 8.4 History of Recent Planning Controls ...... 74 May 2019 - Version C Page | 1 DRAFT (For Public Exhibition) Part A - Local Profile - Grenfell (Land Use/Settlement) Strategy, Weddin Shire NSW Figures & Tables Figure 1: Silo Art – Grenfell Commodities Site, Railway Precinct, Grenfell (2019) ...... 1 Figure 2: Except of Land Zoning Map for Grenfell with Strategy focus on Urban Zones (B2/IN1/RU5/R1/RE1/RE2). .... 6 Figure 3: Existing Urban Area – Primary Study Area (Note: Investigation Areas may extend beyond this boundary). ... 7 Figure 4: Central West & Orana 2036 Regional Plan – with Grenfell in the Yellow Circle (Source: Figure.3)...... 11 Figure 5: Weddin Fact Sheet (Source: CENTROC Website/RDA)...... 12 Figure 6: Census population and data for Weddin Shire 1976-2016 (Source: ABS)...... 13 Figure 7: Census population for Weddin Shire 1976-2014 (Source: Community Strategic Plan/ABS)...... 13 Figure 8: Weddin Shire Age Distribution 2016 (Source: Wellness Plan Figure.1/ABS)...... 13 Figure 9: Population and House Change Projections for Weddin Shire 2016-2036 (NSW Government)...... 14 Figure 10: Comparison Weddin population/2016 NSW Government projections (Source: NSW Population Futures 2019)...... 14 Figure 11: Arrivals/departures by age group - Weddin Shire 2011-2016 (Source: NSW Population Futures 2019). ... 15 Figure 12: Centres for population growth and loss to/from Weddin Shire (Source: NSW Population Futures 2019). . 15 Figure 13: Grenfell Census boundary maps (Source: Australian Bureau of Statistics (ABS) Census Quickstats)...... 16 Figure 14: Census population and dwelling data for the Grenfell Urban Locality 1976-2016...... 16 Figure 15: Table of Grenfell's Age Cohorts compared to NSW/Australia (Source: ABS 2016 Census)...... 17 Figure 16: Forward projection of Grenfell's 2016 population based on low, medium & high growth rates...... 18 Figure 17: SEIFA Index 2016 (ABS statistics Beta Version)...... 19 Figure 18: SEIFA Index 2016 Advantage & Disadvantage (Source: SBS - 29/11/2017 Article Online)...... 19 Figure 19: Table of Employment (Source: 2016 Census ABS)...... 20 Figure 20: Table of Median Incomes – Grenfell / Weddin / NSW / Australia (Source: 2016 Census ABS)...... 20 Figure 21: Graph of Median Incomes – Weddin Shire (Personal/Family/Household) (Source: Wellness Plan)...... 21 Figure 22: Table of Occupations – Grenfell / NSW / Australia (Source: 2016 Census ABS)...... 21 Figure 23: Table of Industry of Employment – Grenfell / NSW / Australia (Source: 2016 Census ABS)...... 21 Figure 24: Top Three Contributors to Agricultural Production in The Central West and Orana (2011) (Source: Figure.5 Central West & Orana Regional Plan 2036)...... 22 Figure 25: Weddin Profile (RDA Central West website) (NIEIR (2014) / A.P. Sheere Consulting (2015) Investment Opportunity Assessment 2013)...... 22 Figure 26: Summary of Industry of Employment Weddin Shire (Source: ABS) ...... 23 Figure 27: Number of Businesses in recent years Weddin Shire (Source: ABS) ...... 23 Figure 28: Location Quotients – Employment Growth South West Slopes (Source: REDS Supporting Analysis p.32). . 24 Figure 29: Index of regional core competencies for South West Slopes (Source: REDS Supporting Analysis p.34)...... 25 Figure 30: Excerpt from Heritage Map for Town of Grenfell...... 28 Figure 31: Indicative dimensions for key block sizes in the southern grid section of Grenfell...... 30 Figure 32: Excerpt from Emu Creek FRMS&P – Location Plan showing local watercourses...... 31 Figure 33: Excerpt from Emu Creek FRMS&P – Figure 2.2 Flood Planning Area ...... 32 Figure 34: Map of known alluvial gold and mine leases to east of Grenfell (Source: unknown)...... 34 Figure 35: Potential Mine Subsidence Area (Council GIS Map – Requires Proofing)...... 35 Figure 36: Overlay of sensitive biodiversity and watercourses (Source: ESA LEP) & bushfire prone land (RFS 2015). . 36 Figure 37: Grenfell historic railway station (Source: Weddin DCP 2014) ...... 38 Figure 38: Excerpts from www.nswrail.net for Grenfell Station & the Grenfell Line...... 39 Figure 39: Potential Freight Network Improvements (Source: Central West & Orana Regional Plan 2036 – Figure 9). 40 Figure 40: Central Tablelands Water network (Source: Annual Report 2017-2018)...... 42 Figure 41: Supply Area (Source: Essential Energy - Asset Management Distribution Annual Planning Report 2018)...... 44 Figure 42: Architect's illustration of the proposed new medical centre in Main St (Source: Council Fact Sheet)...... 47 Figure 43: Weddin LGA Aged Care service estimate requirements to 2021 (Source: Figure 10 Wellness Plan)...... 47 Figure 44: Taylor Park alignment of Zone RE1 Public Recreation (green) to actual park area (yellow dotted line)...... 49 Figure 45: Rotary Park alignment of Zone RE1 Public Recreation (green) to actual park area (yellow dotted line). .... 49

May 2019 - Version C Page | 2 DRAFT (For Public Exhibition) Part A - Local Profile - Grenfell (Land Use/Settlement) Strategy, Weddin Shire NSW Figure 46: Example of Planning Policy Hierarchy from Local Housing Strategy Guideline (Source: Figure.2)...... 50 Figure 47: Related NSW Government policies & strategies (Source: Figure.6 Economic Vision)...... 66 Figure 48: Principles for future investment (Source: Economic Vision p.22)...... 67 Figure 49: Community Plan Priorities (Source: CSP Graph Three)...... 68 Figure 50: New Council Projects 2017 (Source: CSP Table Four)...... 68 Figure 51: Top Needs as judged by Weddin Digital Panel (Source: Figure.11 Wellness Plan)...... 69 Figure 52: Main Street, Grenfell options to drive Business Change (Source: Figure.15 Wellness Plan)...... 70 Figure 53: Weddin Tourism product development (Source: Figure.16 Wellness Plan)...... 70 Figure 54: Shortfalls in civic infrastructure (Source: Figure.18 Wellness Plan)...... 70 Figure 55: Excerpt of Key Issues from Economic Development Plan 2017-2021 pp.3-4...... 71 Figure 56: Priorities for Economic Development (EDS p.7 / CSP)...... 72 Figure 57: Zone 2(t) Township/Village Maps - (Left) Interim Development Order 1 DCP Map; (Right) Amendment No.1 Draft Map that shows more recent changes to the urban area...... 74 Figure 58: Excerpt from Zoning Map Weddin Local Environmental Plan 2002 (Source: IWCM 2009 CTW)...... 75

Document Control Version Date Document Provided To A February 2019 Draft for Internal Review Brendan Hayes, Weddin Shire B April 2019 Draft for Councillor Workshop Brendan Hayes, Weddin Shire C May 2019 Draft for Approval for Public Exhibition Brendan Hayes, Weddin Shire

May 2019 - Version C Page | 3 DRAFT (For Public Exhibition) Part A - Local Profile - Grenfell (Land Use/Settlement) Strategy, Weddin Shire NSW 1 SUMMARY The following is a brief summary of some of the key findings in this Local Profile & Background chapter.

1) Vision/Objective: This Grenfell (Land Use) Strategy provides a holistic land use strategy for the Town of Grenfell. It seeks to provide a plan for at least 20-years growth, maintain and enhance the population and its economy/services, provide flexibility for development to adapt to the town's changing needs and address strategic planning principles set out for each land use in this Strategy. 2) Population: Grenfell (like Weddin Shire) has had a fluctuating population but since 2001/2006 this has stabilised (or reduced population loss) in comparison to the NSW Government negative growth projections. The Community Strategic Plan sets aspirational targets for population growth and these need to be supported by responsive land use planning. 3) Economic Indicators: There are some economic indicators suggesting good affordability and employment opportunities in Grenfell but also challenges in socio-economic equality, average incomes, and lack of diversity in the local economy with a heavy reliance on agriculture and government services. This Strategy prioritises land uses that will facilitate economic growth whilst balancing other social and environmental requirements. 4) Land Supply vs Demand: There are indications that existing barriers to/demand for industrial and residential land supply are increasing those land values and that additional growth opportunities need to be investigated. Commercial land supply currently appears to have lower demand but will need to manage changes to retail/commercial uses whilst protecting and enhancing the historic town centre. 5) History & Heritage: Grenfell has an interesting history that is reflected in a relatively intact historic town centre and recognised culture and heritage. Current heritage controls appear to provide a framework for protection of most heritage items but could be enhanced by some expansion of heritage listings, improved main street and urban design, and further engagement with Aboriginal stakeholders and elders. This Strategy supports the ongoing review of listed heritage items and the function of the heritage conservation area. 6) Flooding & Drainage: There are opportunities for improved stormwater drainage and detention systems to manage peak rainfall events and some additional infrastructure required to avoid or minimise impacts from flooding along the Emu Creek and its tributaries, particularly along O'Brien Tributary – subject to costs and funding. 7) Mining & Subsidence Risk: Mining in Grenfell is an important part of its history, character and identify but it has also left a legacy of potential mine subsidence risk particularly on the eastern side of town. It is recommended that funding is sought to identify, map, and minimise this risk (where possible). 8) Natural Environment: There is no significant biodiversity or environmental constraints in the urban area of Grenfell though there are opportunities to improve environmental outcomes, particularly along waterways and through enhanced ecological connections. 9) Infrastructure: Grenfell has good levels of road access but rail is less likely to play a role in its future. It has reasonable utility infrastructure to support the town and plans to upgrade water and sewer capacity. However, there are some limitations to growth potentially requiring extensions to these utilities in the existing and proposed future urban growth areas. 10) Community/Recreational Facilities: Grenfell continues to enhance its community & recreation facilities to address changing needs supports its community, and retain/attract population as the Shire's major service centre. This will require ongoing review, particularly with an ageing population (see Wellness Plan) and may require facilitation of additional independent living and aged care facilities. 11) Planning Framework: This Strategy is broadly consistent with and supportive of the NSW Planning framework and guidelines for land use strategies including, but not limited to the Regional Plan and Council's other strategies/policies.

May 2019 - Version C Page | 4 DRAFT (For Public Exhibition) Part A - Local Profile - Grenfell (Land Use/Settlement) Strategy, Weddin Shire NSW 2 AIM OF PROJECT 2.1 Introduction iPLAN PROJECTS has been engaged by Weddin Shire Council ('Council') to prepare a Land Use Strategy ('Strategy') for the Town of Grenfell. The Grenfell (Land Use) Settlement Strategy ('Strategy') aims to guide future growth and appropriate land use controls to facilitate the desired types and form of development across the town. Grenfell does not currently have an integrated land use strategy yet it has the greatest potential for growth and change in the Shire. Responding and adapting to this change requires a clear vision and objectives to maximise opportunities and address challenges, supported by clear consultation with stakeholders and the community.

2.2 Drivers / Objectives 2.2.1 Some Drivers for this Project Some of the key reasons for preparation of a Land Use Strategy for Grenfell are as follows: 1. There is currently no land use strategy for the urban areas of Grenfell (the Rural Settlement Strategy and later Addendums deal with Zone R5 Large Lot Residential lands and rural lands and villages but not Grenfell itself); 2. Better outcomes are likely to result from having a community-led vision for desired future growth and land use policy that integrates land use, urban design, economics and infrastructure for sustainable growth. This should be consistent with the desired character for Grenfell and attract people and investment and promote amenity; 3. While rural populations may be falling, Grenfell's population has experienced less decline and even some periods of growth. Even without population growth dwelling and business growth still occur and that growth needs to be managed; 4. There has been some reasonable take-up of industrial land in Grenfell so there needs to be a consistent strategy to grow employment lands that integrates with desired growth directions for other land uses and minimises the potential for land use conflict. Grenfell needs to capitalise on regional projects like Inland Rail & the Parkes Special Activation Precinct ('SAP'); 5. The new Medical & Healthcare Centre and Regional Aquatic & Fitness Centre are opportunities to leverage growth and amenity for the community and stabilise younger and older population losses to larger centres; 6. The Main Street Renewal Study creates an opportunity to revitalise the town centre and investigate its broader functioning and capacity to adapt to changing retail and commercial needs; 7. There is a clear demographic trend towards an ageing population and increase in lone person households that may not be met by current housing stock. If supply doesn't meet demand then it may result in people moving away from the Shire in later years. We suggest a review of ways to promote infill and medium density housing consistent with Council's Wellness Strategy for ageing-in-place; 8. Infrastructure provision may be restricting efficient development of land (particularly urban residential); 9. The Community Strategic Plan 2017-2026 sets out a number of strategies and projects that should be integrated into land use strategies and a desire to grow the shire's population that needs to align with land use policy; 10. This work can inform the requirement to prepare Local Strategic Planning Statement (land use) by 1 July 2020 – as a 20-year vision for land use in the Town of Grenfell.

2.2.2 Grenfell (Land Use) Strategy Objective(s) Some overarching objectives for the Grenfell (Land Use) Strategy are to: 1. Discuss the desired future character and vision for growth for Grenfell and key land uses; 2. Review key population and demographic trends affecting land uses in Grenfell; 3. Review key opportunities and constraints on growth of key land uses in Grenfell; 4. Focus on employment generating uses as these are likely to drive growth in Grenfell and Weddin Shire; 5. Ensure that all urban land uses have sufficient land supply to meet estimated demand for the next 10-20 years and potentially identify areas for investigation for future growth beyond that timeframe; 6. Maintain or improve environmental and cultural values and assets; 7. Ensure that key planning controls are aligned with desired built form and landscape outcomes; 8. Ensure that key planning controls are aligned with the relevant legislative and policy framework; 9. Encourage sustainable development that enhances Grenfell for future generations; 10. Integrate with other relevant land use strategies for Grenfell for a comprehensive land use approach. May 2019 - Version C Page | 5 DRAFT (For Public Exhibition) Part A - Local Profile - Grenfell (Land Use/Settlement) Strategy, Weddin Shire NSW 2.2.3 Grenfell Urban Design Study It is important to note that this is not an urban design or landscape/environmental study for the Town of Grenfell and this may be dealt with separately. However, some land use issues and concept for areas may overlap with urban design, functional and aesthetic issues so the different studies need to be integrated (where relevant) with Council's other ongoing studies, especially the Main Street Renewal Study.

2.3 Integration with Adopted Land Use Strategies Other relevant Land Use Strategies in Weddin Shire that this Project needs to integrate with include: 1. Booth Associates (Oct 2012) Primary Production Strategy – Rural lands 2. Booth Associates (Oct 2012) Rural Settlement Project – Supply & Demand Analysis (Zone R5 & RU5 only) 3. Booth Associates (Oct 2012) Rural Settlement Project – Constraints & Opportunities (Zone R5 & RU5 only) 4. iPLAN PROJECTS (May 2016) Addendum to Rural Settlement Project relating to Zone R5 Large Lot Residential Lands around Grenfell (May 2016). Please see also the list of relevant documents later in this Part.

2.4 Study Area This Strategy is focussed on the urban areas of the Town of Grenfell and will review land in the following urban zones in Weddin Local Environmental Plan 2011 ('WLEP2011') (see Figure.2 - Land Zoning Map below): 1. Business Uses: Zone B2 – Local Centre (No Minimum Lot Size - MLS) & RU5 – Village (No MLS); 2. Industrial Uses: Zone IN1 – General Industrial (No MLS); 3. Urban Residential Uses: Zone R1 – General Residential (MLS - 900m2).

Figure 2: Except of Land Zoning Map for Grenfell with Strategy focus on Urban Zones (B2/IN1/RU5/R1/RE1/RE2).

May 2019 - Version C Page | 6 DRAFT (For Public Exhibition) Part A - Local Profile - Grenfell (Land Use/Settlement) Strategy, Weddin Shire NSW This Strategy will not examine in detail the zones below. It will only look at the interface of the above urban zones with the following zones where it is relevant to their operation and growth of the above zones as the zones below were covered in other strategies or have limited growth potential: 1. Zone R5 – Large Lot Residential (4000sqm/1ha/2ha/5ha/10ha) (covered by previous land use strategies); 2. Zone E3 – Environmental Management (10ha) (limited growth potential); 3. Zone RE1 – Public Recreation & Zone RE2 – Private Recreation; 4. Zone RU1 – Primary Production (covered by previous land use strategies); 5. Zone SP2 – Classified Road (No MLS) (governed mostly by State Environmental Planning Policies).

Figure 3: Existing Urban Area – Primary Study Area (Note: Investigation Areas may extend beyond this boundary).

2.5 Indicative Process / Structure The following is a preliminary outline of the process to prepare the Grenfell (Land Use) Strategy not including the consultation/engagement component that will be integrated throughout the process: 1. Vision/Objectives: This Strategy has initial objectives for both the land use strategy. Once additional feedback is provided this can be formalised to guide the Strategy but is also updated after community and stakeholder engagement. 2. Local Profile & Demographic Issues: This Part documents the local profile of the Town of Grenfell including key demographic and social/economic trends from the 2016 Census and other relevant sources that may affect land use and development. Some of this has already been analysed in other Council strategies – so where possible we have incorporated this data. 3. Planning Policy Review & Issues: We have reviewed the evolving State planning legislation and policies that sit above and guide any local land use strategies and ensure appropriate integration and consistency.

May 2019 - Version C Page | 7 DRAFT (For Public Exhibition) Part A - Local Profile - Grenfell (Land Use/Settlement) Strategy, Weddin Shire NSW 4. Mapping & Opportunities/Constraints: We have utilised Council's existing Geographic Information System (GIS) files combined with local site analysis and Council staff discussions to inform the preparation of a set of maps showing key opportunities and constraints that may affect land use growth. 5. Land Use Supply/Demand Review: We have conducted a brief review of existing land use supply for the major land uses based on aerial views and some limited site analysis and mapping with a focus on vacant land supply. The NSW Government sometimes requires a comprehensive review (particularly for residential land) but we have suggested a simpler review as no major changes are proposed. We have then overlaid the opportunity/ constraint mapping to determine what vacant land is more likely to be developable and considered historic land use demand and some potential growth scenarios to estimate future potential demand for key land uses. 6. Barriers to development: We have conducted a brief review of other (non-land-use) constraints or barriers to development (mainly anecdotal issues rather than detailed research) to highlight that developable land supply may not of itself be sufficient to enable the preferred development though there may be ways to address those constraints. All of the issues identified above have then be summarised and their overall/cumulative impact on land use growth assessed. This has integrated into the future demand assessment for each land use. 7. Strategic Development Principles: With input from State and local planning policy it is important to set out the key objectives for each land use and some development principles that may guide use of existing lands or identification of additional lands for those uses (e.g. avoiding or mining land use conflict). 8. Potential Land Use Options: A range of options is provided to address the key issues that may include No Action / Limited Change / Major Change and some key pros and cons of each key option. 9. Future Growth Areas/ Limited Key Area Concept Planning: If land uses are expected to grow then investigation areas have been identified for future growth. Without substantial and detailed environmental and site investigations it is not possible to conclusively establish which areas will support particular land uses – but some broad recommendations can be made. For some key areas we may provide some concept/structure plans to establish indicative yield or potential and map key constraints/opportunities. 10. Planning Control Review & Recommendations: We have conducted a brief review of key existing planning controls and suggest where amendments may need to be made to facilitate the recommendations of the land use strategy.

2.6 iPLAN PROJECTS iPLAN PROJECTS is a town planning and urban design consultancy located in Orange NSW with offices in and servicing most of NSW. The Principal Consultant is Andrew Napier with over 17 years' experience in local and state government and private consultancy as a town planner and urban designer. iPLAN PROJECTS has previously worked with Council to prepare the 2016 Addendum to the adopted Rural Settlement Project (2012) for Zone R5 Large Lot Residential areas around Grenfell. In response to this amended land use strategy, iPLAN PROJECTS prepared Planning Proposals for most of the recent amendments to Weddin Local Environmental Plan 2011 ('LEP') and some amendments to the Weddin Development Control Plan ('DCP') to improve assessment and flexibility for certain land uses.

May 2019 - Version C Page | 8 DRAFT (For Public Exhibition) Part A - Local Profile - Grenfell (Land Use/Settlement) Strategy, Weddin Shire NSW 2.7 Summary of Opportunities & Constraints Influencing Grenfell's Growth This Section seeks to summarise some of the key opportunities and challenges to the future stability and potential growth of Grenfell in terms of population, services, and social/economic/environmental sustainability: Key Opportunities/Strengths Key Challenges/Weaknesses 1. Grenfell is located on the Mid Western The Mid Western Highway it is not identified as a Road Infra- Highway connecting and far major freight or traffic route compared to the structure western NSW through to Bathurst and Sydney Newell and Olympic Highways (north-south) on with significant transport volumes that are the western and eastern edges of the Shire. The likely to grow over time. Connections to Riverina is likely to freight directly through value-add industries in the Central West may Goulburn or Young/Cowra. Lower traffic increase the importance of these links. volumes may impede growth. 2. Inland Rail will pass through the western part The Grenfell Branch Line is unlikely to be Rail Infra- of the Shire. Parkes Special Activation reactivated and Weddin Shire is unlikely to be structure Precinct ('SAP') will be the closest hub. This suitable for any inter-modal freight stations or may decrease freight costs for products from leverage significant freight opportunities from Weddin Shire and provide flow-on benefits the Inland Rail in competition with larger for agribusinesses/industry looking for land in centres. Flow on benefits not yet quantified. proximity to Parkes & other larger centres. 3. Whilst the NSW Government has put in place There will always be pressures on local Local 'Fit for the Future' strategies and sought to government areas with small populations but Govern- amalgamate under-performing Councils – large service areas to deliver effective ment Weddin Shire has been able to demonstrate infrastructure and services. Increased synergies its ability to service the community and retain with other LGAs in the Joint Organisation/Region local services, employment, and focus. This are likely to be necessary to achieve larger can be more responsive to local needs. projects and research options. 4. The recent improvements in local medical Grenfell has a median age of 53 compared to 38 Ageing & services and provision of aged care in Grenfell for NSW and Australia (2016 Census). People Health are likely to reduce the loss of older citizens aged 65 years and over made up 34.6% of Services from the Shire who would prefer to age-in- Grenfell's population compared to only 16.2% in place and promote an increase of people NSW. This will place significant pressure on local moving to Grenfell from the rural parts of the health and aged care services and, if not catered Shire. The existing hospital, aged care and for locally, is likely to result in significant new medical centre are critical infrastructure. population loss over time and service pressures. 5. There are high quality local primary & There is increased centralisation of education Education secondary schools to attract families & services in larger centres, further eroded by promote education. The new TAFE facility will school bus routes to larger centres. It is likely to reduce the loss of some young adults, retrain challenge other Weddin village primary schools. in changing jobs markets, and boost local Education needs to also evolve to address local employment opportunities. and regional skill shortages. 6. A key Community Strategic Plan objective is There has been a significant reduction in Shire & Population for Council to find ways to stabilise and grow Grenfell populations as an average across the the population of the town and this provides last 30-50 years. Key sustainability factors for a 'pathway' for open discussion about issues rural villages, an ageing population, and and opportunities. Shire & Grenfell agricultural employment continue to place population has stabilised (or reduces losses) pressure on regional centre populations. in the last decade compared to NSW Population variability challenges land use Government projections (2016). planning decisions. 7. Weddin Shire is a significant contributor to Agricultural employment has reduced along with Agriculture Regional/NSW agricultural production and it increases in mechanisation and consolidation is the largest percentage of Gross Regional into corporate farming. There are ongoing Product in the Shire. It has key strengths in pressures associated with water security & broadacre farming and cropping with some irrigation potential, soil fertility, efficient farm intensive agriculture. There is potential to sizes, skills/ training etc. Climate variability will increase agricultural production and value- pose an increased risk to agricultural added industries with improved transport. sustainability. The Shire needs to diversify beyond agriculture.

May 2019 - Version C Page | 9 DRAFT (For Public Exhibition) Part A - Local Profile - Grenfell (Land Use/Settlement) Strategy, Weddin Shire NSW

Key Opportunities/Strengths Key Challenges/Weaknesses 8. Grenfell acts as a strong local service centre There is increased centralisation of key retail & Retail & to Weddin Shire and its local population with services in larger centres that results in loss of Commercial IGA and a reasonable range of local services expenditure to these other centres and less local to meet day-to-day needs. Grenfell has a shopping. Technology and online markets are a strong Main Street/town centre that (with major threat to local 'bricks & mortar' retail with planned improvements) could provide higher costs. Local retailers may struggle to significant amenity, character, and attraction. adapt and reduce costs/increase efficiencies. 9. Grenfell provides a range of serviced Grenfell will always have to compete with larger Industry industrial land with reasonable demand, centres like Cowra, Young and Parkes to attract primarily from local businesses. Council is a larger industrial businesses. Costs of developing key facilitator/provider of industrial land that land in Grenfell can be higher without synergies can drive industrial growth. and high demand. 10. Grenfell is seen by many as a town with a rich Grenfell needs significant investment to protect Character/ heritage and local character and good heritage and cultural assets and upgrade the Affordability affordability compared to other larger main street to improve amenity and attraction. centres. It continues to attract families who It needs good transport connections, want the benefits and support of small rural infrastructure, and local services to retain that towns and people are willing to commute to attraction for a broader range of the community business opportunities/services in the region. who can contribute to its economic and social It has low levels of rental/purchase housing growth. Development costs can reduce viability stress and affordable housing. It has good when there are low housing returns. access to recreational infrastructure (e.g. the Aquatic Centre & local parks/sportsgrounds). 11. Grenfell benefits from having limited Grenfell has potential for localised flooding along Hazards/ environmentally sensitive areas in and Emu Creek and its tributaries across a significant Constraints immediately around the urban area and less part of the urban area. Bushfire and significant constraints from drinking catchments, vegetation affect growth to the north. Historic geological constraints, and bio-physical mining & potential subsidence risk could affect agricultural areas. much of the eastern area of the town. Growth directions and development costs are affected. 12. Grenfell has a reasonable level of local Grenfell does not currently have access to Utilities utilities with Council (sewer) and Central reticulated gas for energy intensive industries. Tablelands Water upgrades proposed for The electricity network is limited for both increased capacity. Grenfell has a 66kV renewable energy generation and larger electricity connection back to Cowra. industries. Local sewer and water reticulation may be limiting some residential growth potential & is a significant cost for creating new serviced industrial areas. 13. The 2016 Census and ongoing NSW There appears to still be a lack of data in some Data & Government projects provide some good data more detailed areas / local issues to asses risk Studies to guide land use and economic decisions and and issues. There are inconsistencies in data that check performance indicators. make it difficult to make comparisons and a need Weddin Shire Council has taken the initiative for greater integration in data across NSW to prepare detailed studies to guide decisions Government departments. Local strategies will on key issues and challenges facing the Shire need ongoing review to integrate outcomes, including the Local Economic Development adapt to changing issues, and create local cost- Strategy 2017-2021 and Weddin Wellness effective and achievable solutions. Plan 2018-2022 and other plans. 14. Local communities like Grenfell are often There are a number of natural hazards, climate Resilience fairly resilient to change and pressures and variability, and dependence on agriculture that rural communities work together to manage can challenge local resilience. There needs to be change. People try to shop locally. a greater diversity of economic sectors and Maintaining that community spirit and improved land use decisions to avoid or minimise allowing people to age-in-place contribute to impacts from natural hazards. resilience and sustainability.

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Figure 4: Central West & Orana 2036 Regional Plan – with Grenfell in the Yellow Circle (Source: Figure.3).

May 2019 - Version C Page | 11 DRAFT (For Public Exhibition) Part A - Local Profile - Grenfell (Land Use/Settlement) Strategy, Weddin Shire NSW 3 LOCAL PROFILE 3.1 Location Weddin Shire sits between (to the west) the Newell Highway from Melbourne (via Dubbo) to Brisbane, (to the east) the from Wagga Wagga to Cowra, and the Mid-Western Highway to Bathurst runs east-west through the Shire (see Figure below). It is at the southern edge of the Central West sub-region and borders the Riverina Murray region to the south.

Figure 5: Weddin Fact Sheet (Source: CENTROC Website/RDA). The Town of Grenfell sits in the heart of Weddin Shire on the Mid Western Highway to the north of the Weddin Mountains National Park. Distances from Grenfell to other major centres are (by driving – Source: Google Maps):  Young ~50km (~36 minutes' drive);  Bathurst ~161km (~1 hour-52 minutes' drive);  Cowra ~55km (~40 minutes' drive);  Wagga Wagga ~190km (~2 hours' drive);  Forbes ~65km (~46 minutes' drive)  Dubbo ~220km (~2.5 hours' drive);  Parkes ~98km (~1 hour-7 minutes' drive);  ~220km (~2.5 hours' drive);  West Wyalong ~105km (~1 hr-11 minutes' drive);  Sydney ~360km (~5 hours' drive).  Orange ~134km (~1 hour-40 minutes' drive); Anecdotal evidence is that if Grenfell does not provide the necessary local services, most people will travel to Young, Cowra or Forbes for shops like Target & Coles (Cowra), Big W (Young) & Woolworths (Forbes/Cowra) (noting IGA is well supported in Grenfell). The next larger centres of Parkes, Orange or Bathurst provide higher level services. It is interesting to note that Grenfell is closer to Canberra than Sydney, and Canberra is a key influence in migration.

3.2 Demographic Trends – Weddin Shire 3.2.1 Weddin Shire – Census This is only a brief review of recent population changes (place of usual residence) in Weddin Shire as it is the recent changes that are most relevant to setting current direction for land uses and planning controls. There are several key trends visible in the table and graph below including, but not limited to: a) The population has steadily declined from 1976 to 2001 but has remained fairly static since that time (this contrasts with the 2016 DPE projections below); b) The population has continued to increase in median age meaning that there is an ageing population and increasing number of older citizens potentially requiring support services; c) The total number of dwellings has generally risen (256 dwellings total over 40 years or 6.4 dwellings/year) but the total occupied has varied and is now only a smaller percentage (note that measurement has changed from total occupied to private dwellings occupied in the table).

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Year Census Change in Census Median Dwellings Population (ABS Pop. Age Census) 1976* 4,496 (4,750 CSP) 1,608 Total 1981* 4,272 (4,400 CSP) -224 (-4.98%/5 yrs) 1,653 Total / 1,427 Occupied 1986^ 4,092 (4,200 CSP) -180 (-4.21%/5 yrs) 1,659 Total / 1,442 Occupied 1991# 4,100 (4,260 CSP) +8 (+0.2%/5 yrs) 1,708 Total / 1,527 Occupied 1996 3,788 -312 (-7.6%/5 yrs) 39 years Not available 2001 3,653 -135 (-3.56%/5 yrs) 41 years 1,782 Total / 1,470 Occ. Priv. 2006 3,641 -12 (-0.33%/5 yrs) 44 years 1,856 Total / 1,522 Occ. Priv. 2011 3,665 +24 (+0.66%/5 yrs) 47 years 1,832 Total / 1,503 Occ. Priv. 2016 3,664 -1 51 years 1,864 Total / 1,446 Occ. Priv. * 1976 & 1981 figures from Census of Population and Housing, 30 June 1981 – Persons and Dwellings in Local Government Areas and Urban Centres – (R.J. Cameron). ^ 1986 figures from ABS – Persons and Dwellings in Legal Local Government Areas, Statistical Local Areas and Urban Centres/(Rural) Localities – New South Wales (Catalogue No.2462.0 - Census 86) (Ian Castles). # 1991 figures from Census Counts for Small Areas: New South Wales – 1991 Census of Population and Housing (Ian Castles). - Remainder of data from Australian Bureau of Statistics – Census website (www.abs.gov.au). Figure 6: Census population and data for Weddin Shire 1976-2016 (Source: ABS).

Figure 7: Census population for Weddin Shire 1976-2014 (Source: Community Strategic Plan/ABS). 3.2.2 Weddin Shire – Age Distribution Weddin Shire has a higher than average (NSW) number of people over the age of 50 years, particularly over 65 years of age, and a lower than average (NSW) number of people as children (0-19 years) and significantly lower working age adults (20-49 years). Grenfell has a similar age distribution so the issues are addressed below.

Figure 8: Weddin Shire Age Distribution 2016 (Source: Wellness Plan Figure.1/ABS). 3.2.3 Weddin Shire - NSW Government Projections (2016) In 2016, the Department of Planning & Environment put out the most recent population projections for each LGA in NSW. It is important to recognise that this is often based on historical population data and the forward projections become less reliable over time. For Weddin Shire, the DPE has estimated that the overall population will continue to decline with three (3) possible scenarios based on Low Growth = Negative 1% / Medium Growth = Negative 0.8% / High Growth = Negative 0.6%. This is projected to result in a shire-wide reduction of 50-150 people and 50-100 dwellings needed every 5 years (2016=1850/ 2036=1600 dwellings). May 2019 - Version C Page | 13 DRAFT (For Public Exhibition) Part A - Local Profile - Grenfell (Land Use/Settlement) Strategy, Weddin Shire NSW

TOTALS: 2011 2016 2021 2026 2031 2036 Total Population 3,750 3,600 3,500 3,350 3,200 3,050 Total Households 1,650 1,550 1,550 1,450 1,400 1,350 Average Household Size 2.28 2.27 2.26 2.25 2.24 2.23 Implied Dwellings 1,950 1,850 1,800 1,750 1,650 1,600 CHANGE: 2011-16 2016-21 2021-26 2026-31 2031-36 Total Population Change -150 -100 -150 -150 -150 Average Annual Population Growth -0.7% -0.7% -0.8% -0.9% -1.0% Total Household Change -50 -50 -50 -50 -50 Average Annual Household Growth -0.7% -0.6% -0.7% -0.8% -0.9% Figure 9: Population and House Change Projections for Weddin Shire 2016-2036 (NSW Government).

Figure 10: Comparison Weddin population/2016 NSW Government projections (Source: NSW Population Futures 2019). The first inconsistency between the Census data and projections is that the population of Weddin has not reduced at the rate originally predicted by the NSW Government in 2016 and has had periods of growth between 2006 and 2011 Census periods. There is anecdotal evidence that population loss from rural areas is been relocated to urban areas, particularly Grenfell (see below). Council's Economic Development Plan states that one of its strategies is to build on the reversal in trend and to find ways to continue to counteract the negative [DPE] projections. A Community Strategic Plan Objective is to grow total resident population of Weddin Shire to >4,700 people by 2026 (+1,000 people). This is a significant aspiration but a challenge to align with planning population projections. It could be expected that a significant proportion of any growth is likely to occur in urban areas such as Grenfell. However, as the graph below shows, the key age groups where there is greater loss in population than arrivals is for ages 20-24 (young workers or university/college students). There is anecdotal evidence that young families are returning to the Shire (positive population growth in ages 30-34) and it would appear that many older age cohorts (e.g. age 65-69) are retiring to the Shire (though for subsequent age cohorts there is increased loss).

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Figure 11: Arrivals/departures by age group - Weddin Shire 2011-2016 (Source: NSW Population Futures 2019).

Figure 12: Centres for population growth and loss to/from Weddin Shire (Source: NSW Population Futures 2019).

May 2019 - Version C Page | 15 DRAFT (For Public Exhibition) Part A - Local Profile - Grenfell (Land Use/Settlement) Strategy, Weddin Shire NSW 3.3 Demographic Trends – Grenfell 3.3.1 Definition of Grenfell ABS Boundary Based on the graphics from the ABS Census website below – there is very little change between the 2011 and 2016 Census boundaries for the Grenfell Urban Centre & Locality – suggesting the results are comparable. However, the 2001 & 2006 Census boundary was considerably larger and may result in skewed data (possibly suggesting later census data has reduced when in fact the boundary reduced). Note: The boundary for Grenfell Urban Locality was larger for 2001 and 2006 and then reduced significantly for 2011 and 2016. Therefore, the data is not necessarily comparable over this period and the reduced boundary may have resulted in reduced population and dwelling figures. We have not been able to determine the boundaries for earlier years (1976-1996) so this data may also not be comparable. 2001 Census – 2006 Census – UCL 135400 UCL135400

2011 Census - 2016 Census - UCL115071 UCL115067 (11km2)

Figure 13: Grenfell Census boundary maps (Source: Australian Bureau of Statistics (ABS) Census Quickstats). 3.3.2 Grenfell Urban Locality Census Population / Dwellings This is only a brief review of historic population changes in the Town of Grenfell as it is the recent changes that are most relevant to setting current direction for land uses and planning controls. Year Census Change in Census Median Private Dwellings Total Dwellings Private Population Pop. Age (Occupied) Dwellings (Total) (years) Quickstats 1976* 2,156 737 803 1981* 2,070 -86 765 841 1986^ 1,986 -84 788 880 1991# 2,037 +51 848 928 1996% 1,956 -81 (-200/20yrs or 843 (+106/10yrs) 976 (+173/10yrs) -ve 0.46%/year) 2001 1,922 -34 45 834 953 2006 1,994 +72 (+0.75%/year) 48 889 (+55/5yrs) 1,027 (+74/5yrs) 2011 1,996 +2 50 891 1,001 2016 1,973 -23 (-0.23%/year) 53 874 (-17/5yrs) 1,046 (+45/5yrs) Figure 14: Census population and dwelling data for the Grenfell Urban Locality 1976-2016.

May 2019 - Version C Page | 16 DRAFT (For Public Exhibition) Part A - Local Profile - Grenfell (Land Use/Settlement) Strategy, Weddin Shire NSW From 1976-1996 Grenfell experienced a loss of approximately 200 people over 20 years (or 10 people / negative 0.46% per year). However, from 2001-2006 there was an increase of 72 people (or 14.4 people /+0.75% per year). In 2011-2016 there was a loss of 23 people over 5 years (or 4-5 people / negative 0.23% per year). An average of these increases/decreases results in a nearly static population. The population has declined five (5) out of the last eight (8) census periods from 1976 to 2006 but has mostly increased since 2006 (similar to period when Weddin Shire population has stabilised). Grenfell's population fell significantly in the 1980s and 1990s but has stabilised in the 2000s and 2010s with some small growth. Other key trends visible in the above table including, but not limited to: a) Ageing: The population has continued to increase in median age meaning that there is an ageing population and increasing number of older citizens requiring specific services; b) Total Dwellings: The total number of dwellings has generally risen (+74 dwellings from 2001-2006 and +45 dwellings 2011-2016 – an average of 119 dwellings over 10 years or 11.9 dwellings/year). Note that measurements have changed from total dwellings to total private dwellings in the table and not all census periods are comparable. c) Occupied Dwellings: Occupied dwellings have historically grown at 10.6 dwellings per year (1976-1996) and 11 dwellings per year (2001-2006) but decreased in the 2011-2016 period (possibly due to some reduction in population – but this does not match the increase in total dwellings over the same period). The 10-11 dwelling per year average is comparable to the total dwelling increases. 3.3.3 Grenfell Age 2016 In 2016, the median age of people in Grenfell (Urban Centres and Localities) in 2016 was 53 years compared to 38 in NSW/Australia, a significant increase suggesting a significantly ageing population. Children aged 0 - 14 years made up only 14.5% of the population (NSW – 18.5%) and people aged 65 years and over made up 34.6% of the population (NSW -16.2%). It is clear that the number of older people in Grenfell is significantly higher than the NSW and Australian averages corresponding to below average percentage of people in their working years (20-49 years). This may have flow on effects for the local economy with additional costs and expenditure for older citizens but a lower economic workforce to subsidence those benefits. In terms of maintaining and attracting population the potential to provide additional senior citizen and aged care housing, services and facilities both allows people to age-in-place and potentially provides more local employment in medical and care roles. This is acknowledged in Council's Wellness Plan. There is also the need to also attract new employment and services for younger people to attract younger working people and families. Age Grenfell % New South Wales % Australia % Median age 53 -- 38 -- 38 -- 0-4 years 96 4.8 465,135 6.2 1,464,779 6.3 5-9 years 97 4.9 478,184 6.4 1,502,646 6.4 10-14 years 95 4.8 443,009 5.9 1,397,183 6.0 15-19 years 91 4.6 448,425 6.0 1,421,595 6.1 20-24 years 68 3.4 489,673 6.5 1,566,793 6.7 25-29 years 83 4.2 527,161 7.0 1,664,602 7.1 30-34 years 72 3.6 540,360 7.2 1,703,847 7.3 35-39 years 96 4.8 499,724 6.7 1,561,679 6.7 40-44 years 89 4.5 503,169 6.7 1,583,257 6.8 45-49 years 105 5.3 492,440 6.6 1,581,455 6.8 50-54 years 127 6.4 485,546 6.5 1,523,551 6.5 55-59 years 131 6.6 469,726 6.3 1,454,332 6.2 60-64 years 149 7.5 420,044 5.6 1,299,397 5.6 65-69 years 203 10.2 384,470 5.1 1,188,999 5.1 70-74 years 154 7.8 292,556 3.9 887,716 3.8 75-79 years 134 6.8 217,308 2.9 652,657 2.8 80-84 years 81 4.1 155,806 2.1 460,549 2.0 85 years and over 114 5.7 167,506 2.2 486,842 2.1 Figure 15: Table of Grenfell's Age Cohorts compared to NSW/Australia (Source: ABS 2016 Census).

May 2019 - Version C Page | 17 DRAFT (For Public Exhibition) Part A - Local Profile - Grenfell (Land Use/Settlement) Strategy, Weddin Shire NSW 3.3.4 Difficulties Estimating Future Growth & Demand There are several difficulties with projecting (estimating) population growth and demand in a town like Grenfell including, but not limited to, the following: a) Population Variability: A smaller population means that small changes have a significant impact and there is greater variability over time, making it more difficult to extrapolate population and housing demand trends/projections accurately. b) Economic Variability: A smaller population and economic base means that there may be less resilience to change/impacts at a local, regional, country or international level and this creates larger swings in population and housing demand. It is difficult to predict future economic growth and employment in rural areas with increased mechanisation and technology and a range of complex micro and macro-economic factors providing both negative and positive growth influences. c) Political Variability: Provision of government services, funding and support programs have a significant potential impact on the structure and resilience of rural communities though these are often heavily politicised and variable/subject to election cycles making it difficult to plan medium to long-term. d) Shire-Wide Variability: It is also difficult to apply data from Weddin Shire directly to the Town of Grenfell. Whilst they are connected economically and socially – the rural parts of the Shire may be experiencing population decline related to agriculture but Grenfell has some different economic and social drivers so it may have been able to maintain population and potentially act as a focal point for services, housing for people not involved with or unable to own farm land, and housing for its ageing population. e) Local Drivers: Much of the growth in Grenfell appears to come from 'grass-roots' growth by local people with a vision and community connection that counter-acts broader economic trends. Grenfell's population may have stabilised because it offers the potential for older members to remain in the Shire community with a reasonable level of services and the younger working population is adapting to finding new business & employment opportunities that allow them to stay in the region f) Other Housing Growth Factors: One of the common tools for projecting dwelling demand is population growth. However, when population is variable or static there may still be a number of factors resulting in increased demand for housing including, but not limited to, a decreasing household size (number of occupants) requiring more dwellings; increased need for a diversity of housing types not met by the current market; increasing need for age appropriate housing, and turn-over of older housing stock (as evidenced in the census review of issues in this chapter). This is supported in Council's adopted Rural Settlement Strategy at p.39.

3.4 Estimated Projection of Grenfell's Population The NSW Government does not provide an estimated projection of population for towns of Grenfell's size and it is limited to the Shire population projections (see above) that are not optimistic. Whilst the NSW Government has projected shire-wide population reductions of 50-150 people every 5 years down to a population of 1,600 people in 2036 – this does not seem to be reflected in Grenfell's recent historic census population in the last 20 years. There are inherent difficulties with estimating/projecting population in smaller towns as set out above. For this reason, we propose to put forward a low, medium and high growth scenario that provides a range of potential for future testing. It is also difficult to base future projections solely on historic population at such low population numbers. The aim is that worst case (negative) scenario that the average population over the next 20-30 years has only minor (negative 0.2%/annum) population loss. In the medium case, the population remains relatively stable or grows slightly at 0.1%/annum (with minor increases/decreases). In a best-case scenario, the population would grow at a low rate of 0.3% per annum. Annual 2016 2021 2026 2031 2036 2041 2046 Pop. increase Growth % Pop. Pop. 2016-2046 (30yrs) NEGATIVE -0.2 1973 1953 1934 1914 1895 1876 1858 -115 MEDIUM 0.1 1973 1983 1993 2003 2013 2023 2033 60 HIGH 0.3 1973 2003 2033 2063 2094 2125 2157 184 Figure 16: Forward projection of Grenfell's 2016 population based on low, medium & high growth rates.

3.5 Census Data & Housing Supply Gaps Please see the Residential Strategy for more details on census data relevant to housing supply.

May 2019 - Version C Page | 18 DRAFT (For Public Exhibition) Part A - Local Profile - Grenfell (Land Use/Settlement) Strategy, Weddin Shire NSW 3.6 Economics & Employment Economics and employment are important to understanding the capacity of an area to retain population, growth, and longer-term viability. This is only a brief summary of some key 2016 Census data. 3.6.1 Socio-Economic Indexes for Area (SEIFA) 2016 SEIFA is an index that measures disadvantage in a community taking into account a range of factors including % of low-income households, unemployment rate, % of low skilled occupations, % without qualifications, % of households without a car, etc. The Relative Socio-Economic Disadvantage (IRSED) indicator is the most used. Higher numbers mean less disadvantage. 1000 is the average score and NSW and Australia are around this average. Weddin Shire is just under the average and is comparable in SEIFA Disadvantage Index across most of the Central West except for Cabonne/ Orange/ Blayney/ Bathurst having a slightly higher ranking and Cowra having a lower ranking. In advantage and disadvantage only Cabonne is higher in the Central West in broad decile ranking. In Council's Wellness Plan it states that 'Weddin Shire Council is at a similar level of social disadvantage to its neighbours with the exception of employment and education where there is a clearly higher level of skills and potential'. However, looking at Grenfell SA2 Statistical Area the results are significantly lower than Weddin Shire suggesting some degree of disadvantage in town compared to the rest of the rural areas of the Shire. SEIFA Index (Rank State Decile) Grenfell Weddin Orange Relative Socio-Economic Disadvantage (IRSED) (933) 2 (956) 3 (978) 6 Relative Socio-Economic Advantage & Disadvantage (IRSAD) (919) 2 (948) 3 (968) 6 Education & Occupation (IEO) (935) 3 (976) 5 (971) 7 Economic Resources (IER) (964) 2 (994) 5 (983) 5 Figure 17: SEIFA Index 2016 (ABS statistics Beta Version).

Figure 18: SEIFA Index 2016 Advantage & Disadvantage (Source: SBS - 29/11/2017 Article Online).

May 2019 - Version C Page | 19 DRAFT (For Public Exhibition) Part A - Local Profile - Grenfell (Land Use/Settlement) Strategy, Weddin Shire NSW 3.6.2 Land Values Land values are looked at in more detail in Council's Wellness Plan summarised below (See p.7). The recent 2017 Valuer Generals Report for NSW reported that the total land value for the Central West region increased over the 12-month period to 1 July 2017 by 14.8% from $13.9 billion to $15.9 billion. Overall, residential land values increased moderately by 7.3%, although they increased strongly in the Weddin local government area by 16.9% due to high demand for a limited supply in the town of Grenfell. Commercial land values in the Central West region showed a moderate increase of 7.0%, however Weddin commercial land values decreased moderately (-8.4%) because limited demand led to properties being on the market for an extended period. Industrial land values generally remained steady across the region. However, the Weddin local government area experienced a strong increase of 16.0% due to the growth in the rural sector. The summary above suggests the following issues for this (land use) Strategy: a) Residential: A need to confirm sufficient supply potential for residential housing and examine barriers to delivery of housing where there is sufficient land supply; b) Commercial: The changing nature of retail and main street business needs examination to see how Grenfell town centre can adapt and leverage from its key strengths; c) Industrial: A need to confirm sufficient supply potential for industrial development and examine land servicing requirements and potential locations to maximise business success and employment. 3.6.3 Financial Overview Some of these issues were looked at in more detail in Council's Wellness Plan summarised below. While there remains a significant financial disparity across some sectors of the community with retirees relying on declining superannuation returns, the overall financial position is strong and well ahead of inflation. (p.8) The unemployment rate was below the State average in 2011 by 1% however personal income per annum was 67% of the State average at $35,858 for Weddin compared to the New South Wales average of $53,917. There has been a decline in Mean superannuation income from $26,500 in 2009 to $22,843 in 2015. Some 30% of the Weddin population also receive some form of pension or support payment while only 7% is reported for New South Wales. (p.10) The population decline of all groups under 70 years heralds an ageing, financially under-resourced (declining superannuation income) population underscoring a deterioration of economic capacity in some sectors. The 2016 ABS census data reports similar trends to 2011, now 960 (up 60 from 2011) of the working age population participates in unpaid voluntary work and of this, in 2016, 287 (up 30 from 2011) provide supported care for people with a disability. (p.11) 3.6.4 Employment 2016 Employment - People who reported being in the Grenfell Grenfell Weddin NSW % Australia % labour force, aged 15 years and over % % Worked full-time 407 57.8 58.4 59.2 57.7 Worked part-time 211 30.0 30.4 29.7 30.4 Away from work 39 5.5 6.0 4.8 5.0 Unemployed 47 6.7 5.2 6.3 6.9 Figure 19: Table of Employment (Source: 2016 Census ABS). Employment levels in Grenfell are similar to the Shire, NSW and Australia. This suggests that Grenfell provides a significant amount of local employment and whilst its unemployment level is a little higher than some other regions Weddin Shire as a whole has lower unemployment. The main issue would be resilience of employment during economic or climatic impacts on agriculture and other major industries in the area. 3.6.5 Median Weekly Incomes 2016 Median weekly incomes Grenfell Weddin New South Australia People aged 15 years and over ($) Wales Personal 461 492 664 662 Family 1,060 1,193 1,780 1,734 Household 776 904 1,486 1,438 Figure 20: Table of Median Incomes – Grenfell / Weddin / NSW / Australia (Source: 2016 Census ABS).

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Figure 21: Graph of Median Incomes – Weddin Shire (Personal/Family/Household) (Source: Wellness Plan). Median weekly incomes in Grenfell are below the NSW and Australian averages (particularly household incomes) but cost of housing is less and does not place as much stress on renters and mortgages (see Section above). 3.6.6 Occupation 2016 Grenfell has a higher number of people involved in trades and labour and a lower number of professionals compared to NSW and Australia with a significant number of managers (most likely in rural farm management). This may relate more to its rural service role. Occupation - Employed people Grenfell % New South % Australia % aged 15 years and over Wales Technicians and Trades Workers 104 16.0 429,239 12.7 1,447,414 13.5 Labourers 102 15.6 297,887 8.8 1,011,520 9.5 Professionals 93 14.3 798,126 23.6 2,370,966 22.2 Managers 92 14.1 456,084 13.5 1,390,047 13.0 Machinery Operators and Drivers 73 11.2 206,839 6.1 670,106 6.3 Community and Personal Service 70 10.7 350,261 10.4 1,157,003 10.8 Workers Clerical and Administrative 63 9.7 467,977 13.8 1,449,681 13.6 Workers Sales Workers 52 8.0 311,414 9.2 1,000,955 9.4 Figure 22: Table of Occupations – Grenfell / NSW / Australia (Source: 2016 Census ABS). 3.6.7 Industry of Employment 2016 The largest industries of employment in Grenfell are firstly the Council and then the hospital with 4th being primary education. This suggests a high degree of reliance on government and community facilities and Grenfell's role as the primary centre for the Shire and there may be some resilience issues as changes in these sectors affect employment. Council is seeking to preserve and strengthen these industries but should also encourage diversity where possible. Weddin Shire's top four industries of employment are grain-sheep or grain-beef farming (11.6%); sheep farming (specialised) (8.1%), other grain growing (6.5%), local government administration (4.3%), and hospitals (3.6%). Grenfell needs to maintain its role as an agricultural service town for the Shire. Industry of employment, top Grenfell % New South % Australia % responses - Employed people aged Wales 15 years and over Local Government Administration 40 6.7 43,378 1.3 142,724 1.3 Hospitals (except Psychiatric 33 5.5 119,350 3.5 411,808 3.9 Hospitals) Supermarket and Grocery Stores 24 4.0 74,487 2.2 254,275 2.4 Primary Education 23 3.8 65,204 1.9 231,198 2.2 Sheep Farming (Specialised) 18 3.0 6,728 0.2 18,197 0.2 Figure 23: Table of Industry of Employment – Grenfell / NSW / Australia (Source: 2016 Census ABS).

May 2019 - Version C Page | 21 DRAFT (For Public Exhibition) Part A - Local Profile - Grenfell (Land Use/Settlement) Strategy, Weddin Shire NSW 3.6.8 Weddin - Employment / Gross Regional Product

Figure 24: Top Three Contributors to Agricultural Production in The Central West and Orana (2011) (Source: Figure.5 Central West & Orana Regional Plan 2036).

Figure 25: Weddin Profile (RDA Central West website) (NIEIR (2014) / A.P. Sheere Consulting (2015) Investment Opportunity Assessment 2013). May 2019 - Version C Page | 22 DRAFT (For Public Exhibition) Part A - Local Profile - Grenfell (Land Use/Settlement) Strategy, Weddin Shire NSW At the Shire level, Weddin is dominated by agriculture in terms of Gross Regional Product (GRP), proportion of employed people, and number of businesses. After agriculture there is a big step down to education and training, transport, construction and trade/retail (most of which are serviced from Grenfell) (see summaries below). In the Regional Plan (above), Weddin Shire has its highest production in cereal crops, other broadacre crops and egg production totalling $95.5 million. The larger opportunities for growth are likely to be in value-add to agriculture and associated machinery, technology and services- though the construction sector appears to also be growing in the region. Industry of Employment - Proportion of Employed Persons - Census 2011 2017 Agriculture, Forestry and Fishing (%) 36.7 37.5 Health care and social assistance (%) 9.9 9 Education and training (%) 8.5 7.4 Retail trade (%) 8.1 6.9 Public administration and safety (%) 5.1 6.1 Construction (%) 5.2 5.2 Accommodation and food services (%) 3.3 3.9 Transport, Postal and Warehousing (%) 4.9 3.6 Other services (%) 3 3.4 Professional Scientific & Technical Services (%) 2.8 3 Wholesale trade (%) 2.8 2.7 Manufacturing (%) 3 2.3 Administrative and support services (%) 1 2.2 Mining (%) 1 1 Financial and insurance services (%) 0.6 1 Information media and telecommunications (%) 0.6 0.8 Arts and recreation services (%) 0.8 0.5 Electricity, Gas, Water & Waste Services (%) 0.8 0.3 Rental, Hiring, & Real Estate Services (%) 0.2 0.2 Total persons employed (no.) 1,448 1,437 Figure 26: Summary of Industry of Employment Weddin Shire (Source: ABS)

Number of Businesses by Industry - As at 30 June 2013 2014 2015 2016 2017 Agriculture, Forestry and Fishing (no.) 313 307 307 303 289 Construction (no.) 35 34 40 42 35 Rental, Hiring, & Real Estate Services (no.) 28 25 27 30 32 Transport, Postal and Warehousing (no.) 33 32 29 29 31 Retail trade (no.) 26 22 22 22 22 Financial and insurance services (no.) 13 12 18 17 20 Accommodation and food services (no.) 10 12 17 16 19 Wholesale trade (no.) 11 10 9 13 15 Professional Scientific & Technical Services (no.) 15 14 12 16 13 Manufacturing (no.) 9 9 9 7 7 Electricity, Gas, Water & Waste Services (no.) 3 3 3 3 3 Information media and telecommunications (no.) 3 ------3 Public administration and safety (no.) 3 ------Education and training (no.) 3 3 3 3 3 Health care and social assistance (no.) 3 3 3 5 5 Arts and recreation services (no.) 3 3 3 3 3 Other services (no.) 15 16 18 13 14 Currently unknown (no.) 3 3 4 4 4 Number of Businesses by Industry - Total (no.) 527 523 523 519 503 Figure 27: Number of Businesses in recent years Weddin Shire (Source: ABS)

May 2019 - Version C Page | 23 DRAFT (For Public Exhibition) Part A - Local Profile - Grenfell (Land Use/Settlement) Strategy, Weddin Shire NSW 3.6.9 Location of Employment The South-West Slopes Regional Economic Development Strategy ('REDS') 2018-2022 notes that Weddin has 76% of its employed residents working locally in 2016 which is the lowest 'Employment Self-Containment (ESC) score in the sub-region. For example, approximately 100 people leave Weddin to work in Hilltops Shire and 55 people leave Hilltops to work in Weddin (Source: REDS Supporting Analysis p.8-9). 3.6.10 Location Quotient Analysis As the figure below shows, the REDS 2018-2022 for the region notes that some forms of agricultural including 'other livestock farming', 'poultry farming' and meat and 'meat product manufacturing' are experiencing employment growth above the state average. 'Sheep, beef cattle and grain farming' continues to be the largest employer (largest circle) but has employment growth below the average.

Figure 28: Location Quotients – Employment Growth South West Slopes (Source: REDS Supporting Analysis p.32). 3.6.11 Regional Core Competencies As the figure below shows, the REDS 2018-2022 for the region notes core competencies in access to reliable freight and transport infrastructure, technology & investment, but issues in sourcing the required skilled workforce,

May 2019 - Version C Page | 24 DRAFT (For Public Exhibition) Part A - Local Profile - Grenfell (Land Use/Settlement) Strategy, Weddin Shire NSW research, and reliabilities of telecommunications as well as cost and reliability of energy.

Figure 29: Index of regional core competencies for South West Slopes (Source: REDS Supporting Analysis p.34).

May 2019 - Version C Page | 25 DRAFT (For Public Exhibition) Part A - Local Profile - Grenfell (Land Use/Settlement) Strategy, Weddin Shire NSW 4 HISTORY, HERITAGE & SETTLEMENT PATTERN 4.1 History The following is a short overview of some key dates and facts that are important to understanding where Grenfell has come from to guide its future. See the Heritage Section in Opportunities & Constraints below. 4.1.1 Weddin Shire The following is taken from the Weddin Wellness Plan 2018-2022: The Weddin Shire is centred around, and derives its name from, the majestic Weddin Mountains. The name Weddin has its origins in the word ‘weedin’ which means a place to sit, stay or remain, relating to the mountains’ status as a place where Indigenous youths underwent a period of ceremonial isolation during the course of their initiation. The mountain range rises some 400 metres above the surrounding landscape and is of great significance both to the Wiradjuri people and residents of the local Shire. The Weddin Mountains National Park is the biggest tourist attraction with in-excess of 25,000 visitors annually. Geographically, the Shire is at the crossroads of the major thoroughfares from Sydney to Adelaide and Brisbane to Melbourne. The main town of Grenfell is 364km or 5 hours by road from Sydney and within 2.5 hours drive of the major centres of Dubbo, Orange, Bathurst, Canberra and Wagga Wagga. The Weddin Local Government Area (LGA) also includes the villages of , , and Bimbi. Weddin adjoins the LGAs of Cowra, Bland and Forbes in Western NSW Local Health District (LHD) and Young which is in Murrumbidgee LHD. The Shire covers over 3,400 square km which is more than double the land area of greater urban Sydney. 94% is devoted to dry-land agriculture, 3% national parks and 3% state forests. Ample land is also zoned ready for new industry, as well as residential housing and hobby-farms. 4.1.2 Aboriginal History Weddin Shire is within the lands generally associated with the Wiradjuri peoples that commonly associated with central NSW but the language group extends into South Australia, Victoria, and southern Queensland. They were a nomadic tribe with a strong focus on the major river systems (Lachlan, Macquarie, and Murrumbidgee) and watercourses of the area. The Grenfell Strategy is in no way a summary of the history or importance of these peoples to Grenfell and this would warrant further study. However, it is important to recognise that the original custodians for the land in and around Grenfell were the Wiradjuri people. The land may hold significance to those people with potential for Aboriginal cultural heritage and archaeology that may underlay the modern town and form an important part of its history and character and can also inform future character and land use growth. However, this Strategy does not investigate Aboriginal archaeology or key sites and no information has been provided by Council for this purpose. An Aboriginal Heritage Information Management Search (AHIMS) on 12/04/19 did not identify any particular known sites in the urban area of Grenfell or likely to be affected by this Strategy, but this does not mean they do not exist and further consultation should be conducted as part of this Strategy. 4.1.3 Non-Aboriginal History Again, this is not a comprehensive review of Non-Aboriginal history in and around the Town of Grenfell. However, it is worth highlighting some key dates that affected the establishment and growth of the Settlement and give some insight into the culture and heritage that is now present that is part of the character and opportunity for the town. Some of this information is summarised by Lloyd Mitton's A History of Grenfell and the Weddin Shire. Further history can be found in Councils Grenfell Heritage Study. 1813 – Blaxland Wentworth & Lawson cross the Blue Mountains to open up inland NSW 1815-1817 – Oxley & Evans travelled along the Lachlan River and surveyed lands in the Grenfell area 1828-1833 – John Woods / John Butler squatted on Booroodina Run / John White squatted on Burrangong 1847 – Assistant Surveyor Larimer surveyed the land between the Lachlan and Murrumbidgee districts 1850s – The area of future Grenfell was known as the Emu Creek Weddin area 1866 – Discover of gold on the site where Grenfell now stands by Cornelius O'Brien and was one of the richest gold mining fields in NSW from 1867-1871 and named the Weddin Mountain Gold Mining town By Jan 1867 – within 3 months of O'Briens discovery the settlement had 5000-7000 people (and possibly up to 10,000 people)

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1869 – The Star Gully mine and the Oriental Reef were opened between the end of current O'Brien St and Quandong Road. 1860s - The name of the town was first changed to Emu Creek and then Grenfell – named after John Granville Grenfell (Gold Commissioner at Forbes who died in 1866 by bushrangers just when the Emu Creek gold rush began). 3 Dec 1866- Post Office 1st established / relocated to Grenfell Court House premises in 1975 By 1867 – 27 hotels in the township of Emu Creek June 1867 – Hospital opened on O'Brien's Hill 1 Jan 1867 – Proclamation of the Town of Grenfell in the Government Gazette. 17 June 1867 – Henry Lawson born at One Mile Creek 1860s-1870 – George Street was the main street of Grenfell and partly aligned with Emu Creek before curving back – affecting the layout of all subsequent nearby streets in the town centre including Main Street – prior to being properly surveyed in around 1866 1873 – 1st school established Mid 1870s – a new racecourse was constructed on the present site By 1875 – The gold rush was effectively over in Grenfell Nov 1879 – Fires destroyed many of the original buildings in the town centre at the western end May 1883 – Municipality of Grenfell was proclaimed – 320 acres in size – Grenfell Municipal Council election in July 1883 1886 – 2nd fire destroyed 12 businesses on the south side of George St 1890s – New hospital constructed on current site 1880s & 1890s – After the 2 fires the town was reconstructed in more permanent materials, not in the narrow George St, but on the wide Main Street that had been surveyed for this purpose. This included the Oddfellows Hall (1888), Tattersalls Turf Hotel (1888); Bank of NSW (1890); Salvation Army Citadel (1883); The Railway Hotel (1879); and The School of Arts (1896). 1897 – New Council Chambers on the corner of Camp and Weddin Streets / Empire Hotel constructed opposite 1900s – Many new buildings constructed including the Masonic Lodge (1902); Royal (Picture) Theatre (1912); Dodd buildings (1911); Albion Hotel and Stables (1902); Grenfell Observer – Accountants Offices (1906); Bank of NSW (1909); Most of the bank buildings were built from 1890 to 1940. Jan 1901 – Koorawatha to Grenfell railway line ready for use and formally opened in October 1901 for both freight and passengers to Sydney 1906 – Weddin Shire formed by the NSW Government ~1,324 square miles – 1st election on 24 November 1906 After the 1st World War – there was land resumption and soldier settlement across the Shire but not many had experience in farming. 1926 – Grenfell grain silos constructed 1940s & 1950s – High prices for wool boosted production 1964 – Grenfell Historical Society formed 30 June 1975 – Amalgamation of Grenfell Municipal Council and Weddin Shire 1970s & 1980s - Drought Electricity: Kerosene lights were used in the early days but about 1901 the use of acetylene lighting became popular and coal gas lighting was installed about the middle of 1912. Private electric light plants were developed in 1909 and 1923. In August 1927 twenty-five electric street lights were turned on by Town Lighting Co and was taken over by Council in 1931. IN 1956 a County Council was formed to take over electricity production. Water: In 1867 the Grenfell Water Company was formed and the Company's Dam constructed to supply water to the main mines. There were also dams at Star Gully and Willow Dam. Water was a key issue for many of the early years but it was not until 1929 that Council approved the Bogolong scheme and it was completed in 1932 but it took some time to get connections to the mains system and the system was unreliable during drought. The Central Tablelands Water Scheme was proposed in 1938 relying on the Carcoar Dam to service nine (9) towns including Grenfell and Gooloogong and in 1944 the County Council was formed. Subsequently Coombing Creek Dam (Lake Rowlands) was formed and became the primary water source. However, limitations in the pipe size meant limited water supply. In 1983 Council completed plant and storage for recycling of effluent for irrigation that enabled the maintenance of key playing fields and parks.

May 2019 - Version C Page | 27 DRAFT (For Public Exhibition) Part A - Local Profile - Grenfell (Land Use/Settlement) Strategy, Weddin Shire NSW 4.2 Background The history and heritage of Grenfell is an important contributor to the character, amenity and attraction of the area. A brief summary of some key milestones is noted above. The protection and enhancement of heritage places and artefacts needs to be balanced with the constraint heritage overlays and controls can place on development to ensure that Grenfell can grow. Council has already completed several heritage studies in and around Grenfell including, but not limited to:  Weddin Shire Council (Pip Giovanelli) (July 2006) Grenfell Heritage Study; and  Tropman and Tropman Architects (1993) Heritage Study of Grenfell's Town Centre. These studies listed the recommended heritage items in Grenfell as well as a number of contributory items. It is important to note to all of the recommended items are listed in WLEP2011. Whilst this is not a heritage study – there is opportunity to make broad comment on the success or otherwise of the heritage conservation area ('HCA'), heritage listings and influence on main street character to ensure planning controls provide that balance and build on heritage and tourism opportunities. Below is an excerpt of the Heritage Map for the Town of Grenfell showing the HCA and listed heritage items. The HCA is defined by Melyra / Wood / East Streets and just south of Middle Street and is effectively the Town Centre (but excludes the main community/education precinct between Young and Rose Streets along East Street).

Figure 30: Excerpt from Heritage Map for Town of Grenfell. The majority of heritage items are obviously within the core grid / rectangle of the original surveyed town. These items play a significant role in the character of key streetscapes, particularly Camp St, Main St, George St, Middle St and Weddin St. There is only one (1) State listed heritage item in Grenfell that is the Grenfell Railway Station (West St).

May 2019 - Version C Page | 28 DRAFT (For Public Exhibition) Part A - Local Profile - Grenfell (Land Use/Settlement) Strategy, Weddin Shire NSW 4.2.1 Exempt & Complying Development The State Government (& Council) is seeking to promote appropriate development by providing fast-tracked approvals for low-impact activities with clear controls and conditions through State Environmental Planning Policy (Exempt & Complying Development Codes) 2008 ('Exempt & Complying SEPP'). This includes either development not requiring approval ('exempt development') or requiring a fast-tracked approval ('complying development'). Heritage listing may have an effect on the application of exempt and complying development. As of January 2019, exempt development cannot be carried out on State listed (or interim) heritage items (the part of land affected) without an exemption under the Heritage Act 1977 (Section 1.16). This is a relatively minor restriction as there is only one (1) State listed heritage item in Grenfell (Railway Station). More importantly, complying development cannot be carried out on land that is State listed (unless exemption or relevant part of land not listed), that is subject to an interim heritage order, or is identified as an item of environmental heritage or a heritage item in the LEP. This means that all land within the HCA or heritage listed (State or local) generally cannot support a complying development application and a development application is required. This may increase development costs and increase development assessment times but is deemed necessary to protect items and streetscape character. 4.2.2 Heritage Conservation Area ('HCA') Discussions with Council officers and heritage advisor suggest that the HCA is in an appropriate location and a useful tool for managing development particularly of non-heritage listed sites that have historic building(s) and ensuring compatibility to maintain the amenity and aesthetic of the town centre. It was extended further south of the town centre in recent years to capture several important civic and religious buildings and residences. Council has not raised any issue with precluding complying development in the HCA that covers the town centre and believe the community wants Council to consider any development applications in that sensitive area. Options for Change An option with a low likelihood is if the HCA were to be removed from Grenfell. Some similar outcomes could be achieved by heritage listing a larger number of historic buildings and utilising proximity as the tool to promote sensitive development or urban design controls may be useful in addressing streetscape but are less focussed on heritage issues. Currently the HCA covers a number of contributory items that are not listed so it is agreed that the HCA should remain in place for the foreseeable future unless further issues are raised. There is also the potential to extend the heritage area along Weddin St as a large number of heritage items (particularly church and educational buildings) are present on the ridgeline on this key entrance. However, we suspect that Council and the community does not want to unduly constrain development in this area (particularly on church or educational sites) and individual heritage listing is sufficient for protection. 4.2.3 Heritage Listing/Items Heritage listing creates opportunities (e.g. potential for heritage grant funding and adaptive re-use under LEP heritage clause) and challenges (e.g. restrictions on exempt and complying development pathways and sometimes need for heritage impact studies at additional cost). For more details see the document entitled 'Heritage listing explained – What it means for you' by the Heritage Council (www.environment.nsw.gov.au). This Strategy does not seek to conduct a full heritage review but suggests some other important buildings/places that are not listed may need some form of identification and protection to ensure they are not demolished or left to deteriorate beyond repair. It is important to note that the items on the LEP heritage list (State or Local) are not the only buildings of any historic or heritage significance. There are a number of buildings that are not included that are of obvious significance, particularly along George St. There may be a number of reasons why they were not included, including opposition or lack of support by owners. It is common practice in many rural shires to focus listing on key community and government buildings and only list private buildings where supported. We understand that Council is already seeking resources to have a review of the heritage items in Grenfell, and perhaps the Shire. This would build on the 1990s studies, update the heritage inventory sheets for key items, and make recommendations on any changes to heritage listing. Even if items are not listed but have some heritage qualities then the heritage inventory sheets could be referenced through the Development Control Plan to ensure that key qualities are protected and enhanced. With reduced heritage funding over recent years – other tools may be needed to promote upgrades of historic buildings. There also needs to be a review of opportunities for adaptive re-use of key heritage items, particularly in or near the Grenfell town centre – to ensure these are protected but also adapt to activate and enhance the town centre (see the Commercial Strategy for more details). May 2019 - Version C Page | 29 DRAFT (For Public Exhibition) Part A - Local Profile - Grenfell (Land Use/Settlement) Strategy, Weddin Shire NSW 4.3 Settlement Pattern - Block & Lot Size 4.3.1 Street Layout The main/central part of Grenfell is arranged using the 'grid' system of streets defined roughly by North St / South St / Brundah St (west) / Warraderry St (east). This results in a rectangle of approximately 1200m east-west and 1200m north-south. Most major road reserves are 28.7-31m wide. As a historic town, it also has a number of rear lanes (approximately 5.8m wide) that run along the centre of the long-axis of the blocks and would have been designed for night-soil access and disposal (prior to reticulated sewer). These are now used for rear lane access to lots (where formed). The grid is broken in the town centre area where the alignment of George St (along Emu Creek and its tributaries) was created prior to survey (also affecting Main St). The railway line also partly modifies the grid pattern by creating a barrier to east-west connectivity. Drainage corridors cut across the grid layout. Outside the core grid pattern, the roads become more responsive to topography and watercourses and roads radiating out to other centres but generally there is still a modified grid pattern present. 4.3.2 Block Sizes The blocks are a mixture of predominantly east-west long axis blocks between South St and Camp St (between Woods and Weddin Streets) and north-south blocks around the periphery. They are generally ~104-108m wide (including rear lane) by ~186-243m (average 200m) long but some more square blocks also result. 4.3.3 Lot Sizes The resulting lots within the grid pattern/town centre are dominated by lots ~19.9m wide by 50m deep = ~1,000m2 (or multiples of that lot size) or alternatively lots ~24m wide by 40m deep = ~960m2. Some lots sizes are narrower, down to 12.7m wide by 48.4m deep = ~615m2 and there are a limited number of smaller lots sizes. There are also a range of historic smaller lot sizes with some down to 600m2 but also an apparent market demand for larger residential lots towards the periphery of 1000-1200m2.

~200m

m ~50

~105m

m ~105

m ~242

~900m

Figure 31: Indicative dimensions for key block sizes in the southern grid section of Grenfell.

May 2019 - Version C Page | 30 DRAFT (For Public Exhibition) Part A - Local Profile - Grenfell (Land Use/Settlement) Strategy, Weddin Shire NSW 5 NATURAL ENVIRONMENT & HAZARDS 5.1 Topography, Flooding & Drainage Grenfell is part of the NSW South Western Slopes Biogeographic Region which forms the slopes and plains along the western edge of the Great Dividing Range. It sits in the valley created by the Weddin Mountains to the south-west and the Bogolong Hills to the north. A smaller ridgeline runs along Weddin St falling to the north, west and east. Emu Creek is the main watercourse in Grenfell that drains to the south-west (along Mary Gilmore Way) to Burrangong Creek that is part of the Lachlan sub-catchment of the Murrumbidgee within the Murray-Darling Basin. It is only connected to the Murray-Darling Basin when Bland Creek and both the Lachlan and Murrumbidgee Rivers are in flood. Emu Creek has a number of tributaries collecting water from the north, west and east of Grenfell (see Figure below). These are locally known as the: a) Emu Creek Tributary from north-west along and under the Mid Western Highway; b) Company / Bogolong Dam overflow from the northern end of Brundah St; c) Gooloogong Tributary along the western side of Gooloogong Road; d) Star Gully running from north-east of town from Makins St/Star St and then along North St; e) Star Gully Tributary just north of Star Gully; f) O'Brien Tributary from the east and Brickfield Road (which is then piped around the back of George St); g) Southern Tributary from land near Lawson Park Estate across the southern edge of the town's urban area and south of the railway line.

Figure 32: Excerpt from Emu Creek FRMS&P – Location Plan showing local watercourses. Whilst the catchment is small – it does have the potential to flood during high-rainfall events. Overland flow issues are a particular issue where local drainage systems are inadequate. Flooding and stormwater impacts are a significant risk to growth and development around Grenfell but could be improved with new stormwater infrastructure and appropriate development outcomes.

May 2019 - Version C Page | 31 DRAFT (For Public Exhibition) Part A - Local Profile - Grenfell (Land Use/Settlement) Strategy, Weddin Shire NSW Extensive work has been completed on studying flood impacts including the following: a) Lyall & Associates (2007) Emu Creek Flood Study ('Flood Study'); b) Lyall & Associates (April 2012) Emu Creek – Floodplain Risk Management Study & Plan ('FRMS&P'); c) DRAFT studies into O'Brien Tributary in 2015 (Not adopted by Council). The Flood Study determined the flood affected lands across most of the urban area of Grenfell and was the basis for the current Flood Planning Map in WLEP2011 which shows the Flood Planning Area (100 Year ARI + 500mm freeboard). We show below the FRMS&P Map that breaks this down to 20-year ARI and 100-year ARI flood levels that affects most land north of George St. Development of flood prone land not only places that development at risk of flooding but also adds significant development cost and delays to minimise or mitigate that risk and can exacerbate flooding downstream on other properties. Therefore, a key development principle (for all land uses) is to seek to avoid (if possible) or minimise additional development of flood prone land (unless and until that flood risk is reduced).

Figure 33: Excerpt from Emu Creek FRMS&P – Figure 2.2 Flood Planning Area

May 2019 - Version C Page | 32 DRAFT (For Public Exhibition) Part A - Local Profile - Grenfell (Land Use/Settlement) Strategy, Weddin Shire NSW It is important to note that the Flood Planning Area in FRMS&P / WLEP2011 can potentially be reduced by works recommended in the FRMS&P and upstream detention/retention and improvements to drainage systems and creek flows. Please see the FRMS&P Section 3 – Potential Floodplain Management Measures for details. It is not the role of this Land Use Strategy to provide a stormwater strategy as that requires specific modelling. However, it is likely that Council will need to consider the use of additional detention basins or improvements in drainage (for further investigation) to reduce stormwater/flooding issues. The O'Brien Tributary has some significant additional issues because it is piped under and around the northern edge of the town centre and this drainage system has insufficient capacity to manage peak flows. Several developments along this tributary experience significant overland flows, particularly along Warraderry St. Whilst one solution would be to add detention/retention basins above the piped section of this catchment, additional studies of the old mine works (see below) south of O'Brien Hill have further constrained potential basin locations so this issue remains unresolved at this time.

May 2019 - Version C Page | 33 DRAFT (For Public Exhibition) Part A - Local Profile - Grenfell (Land Use/Settlement) Strategy, Weddin Shire NSW 5.2 Mining & Extractive Industries 5.2.1 Mine Workings & Subsidence Risk As Grenfell grew around a historic mining area it has a number of mine workings and shafts that create a challenge/ constraint on some land for growth – particularly where mine subsidence is a risk. Most of these workings are located to the east of the town (see map of alluvial gold and gold leases below).

Figure 34: Map of known alluvial gold and mine leases to east of Grenfell (Source: unknown). Council has prepared a map of potential mine subsidence area (see Figure below). The source of this map is unclear but based on its alignment with the alluvial gold areas and historic mine workings in the map above this appears to be the basis for the mine subsidence map below. It is important to note that the figure above is an indicative area of potential for mine subsidence. This is not a formally adopted mine subsidence map, there has not been extensive research of mine subsidence risk to support the map, and is not supported by any mine subsidence development controls. (Note: It is not an adopted mine subsidence district as this only applies to coal mines under the Coal Mine Subsidence Compensation Act 2017). Development in these areas may be free of any significant risk to low-density development BUT the 'precautionary principle' suggests that these risks should be further investigated before ignoring them. Also, the map of alluvial gold areas may not be complete and there may have been workings outside of the alluvial gold and mine subsidence area mapping. Therefore, there is no guarantee that areas outside the mine subsidence area map are not affected. However, when considering areas for future growth of the town the potential mine subsidence areas (and areas in reasonable proximity or with known mine workings) are relevant to a strategic investigation and a potential constraint to growth and may require additional costs to applicants/Council to prove that mine subsidence is not a risk. This makes them less desirable for more intensive development until such time as the risk can be reviewed by appropriately qualified people and the risk discounted, particularly outside the existing urban residential zone. As stated above, Council has already conducted some additional studies (including ground-penetrating radar) along the O'Brien Tributary to attempt to locate appropriate future detention basin areas and have found potential underground cavities that could be mine workings. However, this is an expensive and time-consuming set of studies and difficult to extend over broader areas with a high degree of accuracy.

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Figure 35: Potential Mine Subsidence Area (Council GIS Map – Requires Proofing). Council should consider applying for funding (if available) to further investigate the geology and potential for mine subsidence on the eastern side of the Town of Grenfell to narrow the area of potential mine subsidence risk or risk from historic mine workings – with a focus on potential development sites. The Potential Mine Subsidence Risk Map shown in this Strategy (or the geo-physical risks of individual sites) need to be verified by Council before any further rezoning in areas affected by potential historic mining activity. 5.2.2 Existing Quarries There is a quarry located to the north of Grenfell with access from Gooloogong Road that sits partly in Zone RU1 Primary Production and partly in Zone R5 Large Lot Residential. The status of this quarry is unknown but it would appear to have additional resource. Further development potential within 500m of this quarry is not recommended until the resource is exhausted and/or the quarry is closed and rehabilitated. 5.2.3 Mineral Potential Based on the Common Ground website (www.commonground.nsw.gov.au) there are no active resource mines in and around Grenfell. However, there are two Exploration Licences as follows: a) EL8726 – Located to the west of Grenfell urban area – Cobalt Magnetic Pty Ltd (Expiry 03/2020); and b) EL8686 – Located through the centre and south/east of Grenfell – Forbex Pty Ltd (Expiry 01/2022). The only area free of exploration licence(s) is immediately adjacent to Mary Gilmore Way to the south-west as well as land significantly north of Grenfell. 5.2.4 Zone E3 Environmental Management It was not part of the brief for this project to review Zone E3 Environmental Management in detail. This is not an urban zone and from what we understand is primarily used to cover land where there is information on a number of historic gold mines with potential mine subsidence risk to limit development potential in this area and protect the special cultural and historic value of the area. Please see the Residential Chapter (Area RE4) for more discussion about potential changes to the urban residential / environmental management interface. May 2019 - Version C Page | 35 DRAFT (For Public Exhibition) Part A - Local Profile - Grenfell (Land Use/Settlement) Strategy, Weddin Shire NSW 5.3 Environment & Bushfire There are generally only limited overlays of environmentally sensitive areas (e.g. biodiversity, riparian corridors (watercourses), groundwater) on or near the urban area of Grenfell, as follows:

Figure 36: Overlay of sensitive biodiversity and watercourses (Source: ESA LEP) & bushfire prone land (RFS 2015). a) Map NRB_008A – Biodiversity sensitivity (high and moderate) maps clusters of high sensitivity in pockets mostly to the north of the town and some small pockets to the east (see maps below); b) Map NRG_008 - Groundwater vulnerability is not mapped within the urban area but is located towards Warraderry to the north-east; c) Map NRW_008A - Sensitive watercourse mapping only includes within the Grenfell urban area Emu Creek as far as Camp Street (draining to the south-west) so it does not include all of the tributaries discussed in the Flood Section above; d) Map NWL – Wetlands mapping only includes land to the west of the Shire and well outside Grenfell. This suggests that there is not a lot of dense vegetation to create strong ecological corridors through the urban area and most of the existing vegetation is likely to be street trees, garden vegetation, or vegetation around key recreation areas. Most of the bushfire prone land (see Figure below) is outside of the urban area except for a small pocket to the north-west. It potentially constrains growth to the north and north-east as these are heavily vegetated areas. However, the terrain is also less suitable to development and part is used for large lot residential areas. Oddly, most bushfire prone land is not identified as sensitive biodiversity land even though it is heavily vegetated and oppositely, there are pockets of sensitive biodiversity that is not bushfire prone land even though it is vegetated and adjacent to bushfire prone land. Generally, growth of the town to the north and north-west is somewhat limited by terrain, significant vegetation, sensitive biodiversity, and bushfire prone lands. However, generally environmentally sensitive areas do not post a major constrain within the existing urban area. There may be opportunities for improved environmental outcomes focusing on the tributaries to Emu Creek and connecting pockets of significant vegetation along key routes and pathways.

May 2019 - Version C Page | 36 DRAFT (For Public Exhibition) Part A - Local Profile - Grenfell (Land Use/Settlement) Strategy, Weddin Shire NSW 6 CRITICAL INFRASTRUCTURE/UTILITIES & ZONE SP2 6.1 Introduction Infrastructure can be an enabler for development and urban amenity but critical infrastructure also needs protection for encroachment and interference (for safety reasons) and may have potential land use conflicts with other sensitive uses. Certain key infrastructure is often placed in Zone SP2 Infrastructure to protect and enable this infrastructure but this does not cover all infrastructure. State Environmental Planning Policy (Infrastructure) 2007 provides an approval pathway for most significant infrastructure in a wide variety of zones. This section provides some brief comments on the use of Zone SP2 and other opportunities/constraints with key infrastructure but is not a complete review of all infrastructure in and around Grenfell. It provides background information relevant to servicing land uses in the following chapters.

6.2 Existing Zone SP2 Infrastructure Some examples of key infrastructure that may be included in Zone SP2 includes: a) Transport infrastructure (e.g. rail corridors, state and regional roads); b) Utility infrastructure (e.g. sewer & water treatment plants or storages; electricity substations, or waste depots); c) Other infrastructure (e.g. cemeteries, hospitals and emergency services). The objectives of Zone SP2 include: • To provide for infrastructure and related uses. • To prevent development that is not compatible with or that may detract from the provision of infrastructure. In WLEP2011, in and around Grenfell, Zone SP2 Infrastructure has only been used for the following: a) SP2 (Railway Infrastructure) – the now defunct branch line from Grenfell to Koorawatha Junction; b) SP2 (Classified road) - Regional roads (managed by the Roads & Maritime Services) including: i. Mid-Western Highway/Grafton St; ii. Mary Gilmore Way; iii. /Weddin St; iv. Gooloogong Rd/Cross St. Development within Zone SP2 is generally limited to 'the purpose shown on the Land Zoning Map, including any development that is ordinarily incidental or ancillary to development for that purpose' and roads. This prevents development for incompatible development. Note that 'water supply systems' and 'sewerage systems' are permitted with consent in Zone RU1 Primary Production so Council has elected not to place these in Zone SP2. However, 'sewerage systems', waste or resource management facilities' and 'water treatment facilities' are not permitted in Zone R1 General Residential (the main urban zone). The purpose of using Zone SP2 over infrastructure is to highlight the permissible uses in and adjacent to that infrastructure, protect that infrastructure from inappropriate development, clarify the hierarchy of infrastructure (particularly roads), and clarify responsible authorities for land acquisition and maintenance. Buffers may sometimes be required to certain types of infrastructure. For the infrastructure using Zone SP2 in/around Grenfell the zone is suitable and does not require change at this time. However, once the Grenfell branch rail line is closed by legislation then it should be considered for removal from Zone SP2 to enable other uses.

6.3 General Principles/Issues Some general principles that applies to all infrastructure, regardless of zoning: a) Protection: Critical infrastructure needs to be protected from sensitive land uses and additional land may be required for growth and upgrades (e.g. Sewage Treatment Plant – see below). b) Hazards: Critical infrastructure should be located outside of areas impacted by natural hazards (e.g. flooding, bushfire, subsidence risk, etc.). Critical infrastructure should have access clear of these natural hazards so it is protected and accessible during hazard events.

May 2019 - Version C Page | 37 DRAFT (For Public Exhibition) Part A - Local Profile - Grenfell (Land Use/Settlement) Strategy, Weddin Shire NSW c) Efficiency: Infrastructure is a significant cost and should be considered early in both the strategic and development assessment processes. Where possible, new development and increased density should be located to leverage from existing infrastructure and reduce the need for significant extensions and increase efficiency (where there is sufficient capacity). d) Utilities: For some development, there will need to be extensions of reticulated electricity, water, sewer and stormwater infrastructure to service growth and this needs to be efficient and cost-effective. e) Safety: Main roads need protection for vehicle safety and State and Regional Roads should seek to minimise new driveways/intersections, particularly where there are poor sight-lines and/or higher vehicle speeds increasing the risk of accidents. f) Rail Corridor: Whilst the rail corridor is currently not utilised it is still a significant asset and Council needs to determine whether it is to be retained and protected for future transport needs (avoiding sensitive uses adjacent) or adaptively re-used for other suitable uses. g) Contributions: New or extended infrastructure should be appropriately funded to facilitate development whilst reducing the risk and cost of development (e.g. appropriate Contributions Plans).

6.4 Rail Infrastructure & Adaptive Re-Use 6.4.1 Grenfell Branch Line The Grenfell branch railway line extends approximately 52 kilometres from the Blayney-Demondrille line at Koorawatha and terminates at Grenfell. The Grenfell Rail Station was opened on 7 May 1901 and is the only state listed heritage item in Grenfell (currently it is used for storage by Lions Club) and is not easy to access – so there is potential to improve protection, enhancement, adaptive re-use and recognition of this heritage item). The rail line was built primarily to carry grain but also carried passengers up until 1974. Services were suspended over the line in 1991 (www.nswrail.net), however, the section to Greenthorpe was reopened the following year to carry grain. The rail line into Grenfell is severed and currently unusable and most of the line would need significant upgrades to re-open. Whilst it would take an act of parliament to close the railway line permanently, it is not expected that this line will be operational in the foreseeable future. Regional Development Australia (2014) NSW Central West Freight Study states that 'Whilst rail lines are non- operational, rail corridors have been preserved and offer significant latent capacity should a business case support substantial freight volumes and reopening of lines.' There is significant support for re-opening the Blayney- Demondrille Railway Line. However, the Grenfell Branch is not specifically recommended for additional study at this time and competition with road freight transport is likely to make this less feasible.

Figure 37: Grenfell historic railway station (Source: Weddin DCP 2014)

May 2019 - Version C Page | 38 DRAFT (For Public Exhibition) Part A - Local Profile - Grenfell (Land Use/Settlement) Strategy, Weddin Shire NSW

Figure 38: Excerpts from www.nswrail.net for Grenfell Station & the Grenfell Line.

6.4.2 Adaptive Re-use of Urban Rail Corridor Assuming the rail corridor is no longer required for significant rail transport, it is recommended there is a review of options for temporary or permanent use of the rail corridor/precinct because it: a) Is a significant asset, b) Consumes significant areas of urban land, c) Is a barrier to urban connectivity, and d) Is significantly under-utilised. There is a large amount of rail corridor land, particularly near the rail station extending from Camp Street down to South Street (6.9ha) and further south and west of West Street (~2ha). There is a mix of owners and uses including, but not limited to: a) Grenfell Commodities – Grain silos and handling (~0.87ha) just north of South St; b) Council land – Park & tourist stop-over facilities near the Rail Station (~0.77ha); c) A mix of government and rail authorities including Crown land; State Rail Authority and Country Rail Infrastructure Authority and unmarked rail land (within the area north of South St ~4.85ha) including the Men's' Shed and State heritage listed Grenfell Rail Station but most of the land is vacant. There is significant potential to approach the government/transport authorities to adaptively re-utilise the rail land (even if only to the east of the railway line without necessarily impairing future rail use or contravening the legislative protection of the rail line). See the Commercial Strategy – Future Investigation Areas (Area R1) for more details. At a simple level, the rail line could be used as a cycle or pedestrian path from the centre to the south of town and Henry Lawson Estate or as part of a wider regional cycling trail (subject to funding). In addition, the corridor could be revegetated for ecological and aesthetic purposes and form part of an 'art corridor' (noting the recent silo art at the Grenfell Commodities land).

May 2019 - Version C Page | 39 DRAFT (For Public Exhibition) Part A - Local Profile - Grenfell (Land Use/Settlement) Strategy, Weddin Shire NSW However, if the rail authorities could be convinced to rezone the land then it would open up a range of potential uses (and perhaps validate some existing uses such as the Men's Shed and adaptive re-use of the Railway Station). This could include (subject to further study): a) Tourist & event uses – art trails, shared bicycle paths, and building on the tourist rest-stop and Rotary Park, possible with market days and carnivals, or providing additional accommodation options near to main town centre; b) Business enterprise uses – primarily for uses requiring larger sites outside the town centre that would not detract from the main Zone B2 Local Centre function and activities; c) Light industrial and transport/logistic uses – where land use conflicts with neighbouring residential along West St and Tyagong St are minimised. 6.4.3 Inland Rail It is important to note that the Inland Rail project (Melbourne to Brisbane via Parkes) is a major transport initiative that will potentially have significant flow-on effects for freight and logistics and settlements/rural areas along its path. The proposed line will run from (via Quandialla & Caragabal in Weddin Shire) to Parkes along mostly existing track (see Figure below). Therefore, it will not run through Grenfell, but 40-45km west of Grenfell. The nearest major intermodal terminal is likely to be at Parkes with a new Special Activation Precinct ('SAP') currently been planned to service the region. This will have several economic flow-down effects for the Central West but it is unclear what specific benefits Grenfell may achieve. Proximity of Grenfell to Parkes and the potential for industrial and logistics/freight growth in the Region may have flow-on effects for agricultural, rural industry, agri-business, and local serviced industrial land and local businesses. Weddin Shire should continue to work with surrounding Councils to determine how to share these benefits and find niche areas where Grenfell and Weddin Shire can benefit.

Figure 39: Potential Freight Network Improvements (Source: Central West & Orana Regional Plan 2036 – Figure 9).

May 2019 - Version C Page | 40 DRAFT (For Public Exhibition) Part A - Local Profile - Grenfell (Land Use/Settlement) Strategy, Weddin Shire NSW 6.5 State & Regional Roads As stated above, there are several State and Regional Roads passing through Grenfell as set out below. The Zone SP2 Classified Roads control is sufficient protection for these roads at this time. 6.5.1 Mid Western Highway The Mid Western Highway is a key route connecting Bathurst and the Great Western Highway / Mitchell Highway to western NSW through Cowra and Grenfell and down to West Wyalong where it separates from the Newell Highway to go to Rankin Springs and Hay (Sturt and Cobb Highways). It is a major east-west distribution route for agricultural produce and freight and a connection to the larger centres of Cowra and West Wyalong for Grenfell residents and tourists. It passes just to the south of Grenfell's town centre (Main Street) along Camp St in an east-west direction. This provides excellent connectivity into and out of Grenfell but as a State highway it can create some issues for local traffic management, pedestrian friendly streets/crossings, and intersection safety near the town centre, especially with some awkward intersections on the western side of the town centre. 6.5.2 Henry Lawson Way/Weddin St Weddin St connects to the Mid Western Highway near the town centre and then is a major urban connector route south where it becomes Henry Lawson Way after crossing the railway line. It then runs roughly south-east to the regional centre of Young and the Olympic Way. This makes it a significant agricultural produce/freight/service connection. 6.5.3 Mary Gilmore Way/Brundah St Brundah St connects to the Mid Western Highway at the western edge of the town centre and then is a major urban connector route south where it becomes Mary Gilmore Way south of South St. It then runs roughly south then south-west around the Weddin Mountains down to Bimbi (connecting to Quandialla) and then Barmedman and the Goldfields Way. This makes it a significant agricultural produce/freight/service connection and tourist route. It is highlighted in the Regional Plan (Figure.9) as a route with some potential road safety, flooding or capacity issues. 6.5.4 Gooloogong Road/Forbes St/ Melyra St/ Cross St Forbes St bisects the town centre (north-south) and connects to the Mid Western Highway. The classified road turns into Melyra St past the aquatic centre and then into Cross St that becomes Gooloogong Road. It then runs roughly north through the Bogolong Hills becoming Warraderry Way before it reaches Gooloogong and the Lachlan Valley Way. This is also the shortest route to travel to Orange (the nearest major regional city). Whilst it is more of a local road, it is still likely to be a significant agricultural produce/freight/service connection and tourist route. It is highlighted in the Regional Plan (Figure.9) as a route with some potential road safety, flooding or capacity issues that may require upgrades. 6.5.5 Traffic Volumes There are limited RMS traffic counters in or near Weddin Shire to be able to specify traffic volumes or breakdown in light and heavy vehicles in the area (see RMS Traffic Volumes AADT Map www.rms.nsw.gov.au). The nearest permanent classifiers are on the Newell Highway at West Wyalong and at the turn-off to the Mid Western Highway but there is no RMS permanent traffic count on the Mid Western Highway. The Newell Highway shows average daily traffic volumes (north & south) of approximately 1,957-1,961 near the Mid Western Highway intersection in 2019 with around 63% light vehicles and 37% heavy vehicles. In 2010 there was a traffic counter on the Olympic Highway near Young showing 1,342 vehicles (north & south) with around 84% light vehicles and 16% heavy vehicles. This volume is expected to have grown since 2010. In 2012 there was a traffic counter on Henry Lawson Way showing 620 vehicles (north & south) with 86% light vehicles and 14% heavy vehicles – showing that these regional roads are also important connection routes. Regional Development Australia prepared the NSW Central West Freight Study in 2014. Freight volumes were obviously significantly higher along the Newell Highway and Olympic Highway compared to the Mid Western Highway (through Grenfell) but it was a major route feeding into Cowra and then up to Bathurst. The Mid Western Highway (through Grenfell) is forecast to have increasing road freight taking it from up to 1 Net MTPA in 2014 to 1-2 MPTA in 2034. The Mid Western Highway is still treated as a Primary Road. Other Regional Roads are key Arterial Roads. Increases in total volume on rural roads such as in Weddin Shire due to grain and livestock transportation (1-2 MTPA) will result in increased maintenance requirements and some moderate congestion at intersections. Council may have more recent and accurate local traffic data.

May 2019 - Version C Page | 41 DRAFT (For Public Exhibition) Part A - Local Profile - Grenfell (Land Use/Settlement) Strategy, Weddin Shire NSW 6.6 Utility Infrastructure 6.6.1 Potable Water Weddin Shire is connected to the Central Tablelands Water ('CTW') supply network from Lake Rowlands Dam in Blayney Shire and services several Central West Councils (see Figure below). It can also be supplemented by bore supply at Gooloogong, Bangaroo and Cudal (if required). CTW is constituted under the Local Government Act 1993 as a County Council but pays for a water licence from State Water to access extra water from Lake Rowlands. Weddin Shire Council is not responsible for water distribution. In 1944 water was first connected from the Lachlan River at Gooloogong to Grenfell to allow operation of the newly built sewerage system and CTW assumed responsibility for this system in 1945. Subsequently, the construction of Lake Rowlands was completed in 1953 followed by connection to Grenfell (~1956). In 1961 booster pumping was provided at Gooloogong and in 1977 the Gooloogong bore was added. Previously Bogolong Dam was connected as a back-up emergency water supply but due to poor water quality the dam was taken out of operation in 2000, was sold to Council in 2013, and the water supply disconnected. The Grenfell filtration plant has not been in operation since Bogolong Dam was taken out of service. Therefore, Grenfell is reliant on the Carcoar Water Filtration Plant ('WFP'). Both the Blayney and Carcoar WFPs have the capacity to provide approximately 15ML/day across the network. There appears to be water storage tanks located to the: a) East of Grenfell / north of Mid Western Highway (Lot 1338 DP754578) – 0.14ML + 0.45ML=0.59ML; b) West of Grenfell / south of Mid Western Highway (Lot 1 DP914574) – 1.36ML; c) North of Grenfell – 4.55ML (1 Bradley St, Lot 1347 DP754578); and d) South of Grenfell – 0.09ML. In 2009, CTW/HydroScience Consulting prepared a Joint Integrated Water Cycle Management (IWCM) Evaluation Study ('IWCM') that looked at supply and demand. Whilst there are constraints on water consumption in the CTW network – these are not believed to be restrictive of reasonable levels of growth in and around Grenfell.

Figure 40: Central Tablelands Water network (Source: Annual Report 2017-2018).

May 2019 - Version C Page | 42 DRAFT (For Public Exhibition) Part A - Local Profile - Grenfell (Land Use/Settlement) Strategy, Weddin Shire NSW However, if a major new water consumer (e.g. industry) was proposed then capacity would need to be reviewed. It is expected that residential growth at current rates could be met by the current system and there are proposals to improve water security currently being considered/implemented. However, if additional villages in Weddin Shire were added this may affect overall supply. In speaking with Central Tableland Water (February 2018) they do not have significant issues with capacity and they are currently seeking to implement a two-way pipe to Forbes (Lachlan River) to add water security to the system. This is in addition to the two-way connection between Carcoar and Orange (Trunk Main K – Icely Rd Filtration Plant) that is nearly complete. Most of the recent and planned upgrades are about upgrading degraded concrete pipes, increasing pipe capacity from 200mm to 250mm poly pipe (two out of three stages complete), transferring bore water licensing from Bangaroo to Gooloogong Bore for improved water quality (less treatment required), and finding ways to reduce pumping/electricity demand for moving water. Generally, the CTW network through the urban area is relatively extensive and runs along most major roads. Extension of the network is not a major impediment to growth in and around Grenfell. A development principle is that connection to reticulated water should (generally) not occur without connection to reticulated sewer. It is important to note that new connections to CTW water systems have 'headworks' charges that can be a significant cost and impediment to new development. In the 2017/2018 Annual Report for CTW the Section 64 developer charge is $9,178 per Equivalent Tenement (ET). Blocks greater than 2,000m2 will incur an additional charge. There is also a contribution charge for developments on existing vacant unconnected land of $4,262 per ET. Water charges are around $2.92 per kilolitre for most uses. CTW needs to be able to claim back the costs of using its extensive network, costs of maintenance, and costs of improving water security. However, Council may need to look at additional ways of reducing or staging headwork cost(s) to maximise connection to reticulated water and sewer networks (preferred in urban areas). CTW may be currently reviewing their Development Servicing Plan and resulting charges. 6.6.2 Sewer Sewage Treatment Plant Grenfell is connected to a reticulated sewerage system with a Sewage Treatment Plant ('STP') located on Memory St to the south-west of town. Weddin Shire Council is responsible for the installation, maintenance, and operation of the STP and reticulation system and sludge disposal. In 2009 (IWCM), the STP had a 2,500 Equivalent Person ('EP') capacity providing primary, secondary and tertiary treatment. Even based on a high-growth population scenario for Grenfell of 2,157 people by Year 2047 this is within the current capacity (excluding industry/commercial use). The system comprises two trickling filters and five polishing ponds, 28km of reticulation and overflow discharge into Emu Creek. According to the August 2018 Council Report – Environmental Services Report - during July 2018 total inflow was 6,532kL with the daily average of 210.7kL. Outflow for irrigation for re-use was 175kL and discharge to Emu Creek was 9,995kL. It would appear that there is more capacity for re-use but environmental flows in Emu Creek may also need monitoring. Council recognises that the old STP needs upgrading to meet environmental best-practice and a Concept Design and Recycled Water Management Scheme has been completed and reviewed by Council. There has been input from NSW Government that raised some further issues late in 2018. This is expected to increase the capacity by only a limited amount (~70 new dwellings) so it is not reviewed in detail in this Strategy but there appears to be sufficient capacity for the next 10-20 years depending on growth rates. In WLEP2011, 'sewerage systems' are permissible with consent in Zone RU1 Primary Production so no additional zoning is required for either the existing or proposed future STP. The STP is located in an area that is part of the flood plain of Emu Creek and adjacent to the South-West Industrial Area so there are unlikely to be significant development of sensitive uses within 100-200m of the STP that are likely to cause conflict. Therefore, at this time no additional planning controls are proposed for the STP. Sewer Network Whilst the 2015 GIS maps of the reticulated sewer network would appear to service most of the core urban area of Grenfell there are still some areas/streets where there is no reticulated service (and/or this GIS layer may need updating). Extension of sewer infrastructure can be a significant barrier to development.

May 2019 - Version C Page | 43 DRAFT (For Public Exhibition) Part A - Local Profile - Grenfell (Land Use/Settlement) Strategy, Weddin Shire NSW For example, whilst there is a sewer line along Quondong Rd and the Mid Western Highway to the east of Grenfell, most land on either side of Brickfield Road (within Zone R1 General Residential) is not believed to have access to reticulated sewer. Therefore, new dwellings would require on-site sewage management and this would substantially increase the size of land required to support a dwelling. See the Residential Strategy for more details. In 2015/2016 Council engaged consultants to carry out a CCTV inspection for 50 sewer mains in Grenfell and found that 38% of the sewer main are in good condition; 48% of the sewer mains are below average condition, and 18% are in extremely poor condition (Council report August 2018 Engineering Item 19). Council is recommending re- lining of the worst sewer mains and is currently seeking tenders for these upgrade works. 6.6.3 Stormwater The reticulated stormwater system in Grenfell drains to various reaches of Emu Creek. It includes a mixture of kerb and gutter, piped stormwater systems, surface flows and open grassed channels. Stormwater capacity is an issue in some parts of Grenfell. For example, as discussed in Section 5.1 – Topography, Flooding & Drainage above, the O'Brien Tributary from the east has insufficient capacity where it is piped under Warraderry St and around the east and north of the town centre, resulting in some intermittent flood issues. Potential solutions include upstream detention and Council is working on identifying appropriate sites. Until this is resolved then localised flooding is a potential constraint to significant growth in the area of Warraderry Street and East St. Until this is resolved then it may limit significant additional density/growth in the affected areas. 6.6.4 Electricity The main high voltage (66kV) electricity line to Grenfell comes from the east near Cowra and terminates at the sub- station on O'Briens Hill (Lot 1 & 4 DP1132001). Essential Energy is the main network authority. From the sub-station there is distribution of low voltage electricity lines throughout Grenfell. Whilst the 2015 GIS maps of the network would appear to service most of the urban area of Grenfell there are still some streets where infrastructure directly adjacent to lots is limited (and/or this GIS layer may need updating). Extension of electricity infrastructure can be a significant barrier to development.

Figure 41: Cowra Supply Area (Source: Essential Energy - Asset Management Distribution Annual Planning Report 2018).

May 2019 - Version C Page | 44 DRAFT (For Public Exhibition) Part A - Local Profile - Grenfell (Land Use/Settlement) Strategy, Weddin Shire NSW 6.6.5 Natural Gas There is currently no natural gas pipeline to Grenfell. The Central West (Gas) Pipeline (operated by APA Pipelines) runs from the Moomba-Sydney Pipeline through West Wyalong to Forbes (assumed to be on or near the Newell Highway) nearly 70km to the west of Grenfell. The likelihood of getting a gas extension to a town the size of Grenfell is small for the foreseeable future unless a major gas consuming industry was located here to warrant the infrastructure cost. This is a potential barrier to expansion of larger energy consuming industries relocating to Grenfell. Reliance on electricity may preclude some industries due to cost.

6.7 Local Roads & Town Centre Parking It is noted that there is a current Main Street Renewal Study that considers issues of parking along Main Street in Grenfell. This highlights that there are some issues with the method of parking along Main Street and impacts on footpaths and post-held verandahs. There is anecdotal evidence from people that they are concerned about parking provision in the town centre – but this is in part due to an expectation of being able to park in relatively close proximity to any particular shop and also parking provision during peak events. The current proposal in the Main Street Renewal Study has not been adopted by Council due to concern by shop- owners and other about safety of a mid-street parking area, and concern about changes to parking numbers and useability. Any solution needs to improve parking whilst allowing street upgrades and street tree plantings. Whilst identification of sites for Council to purchase for additional off-street parking could assist – there may be a perception these are not as accessible as on-street parking closer to shops and it would be at significant expense so it is not investigated in detail at this time.

6.8 Cemeteries The primary cemetery is the Grenfell Cemetery located south of town on the Henry Lawson Way about 800m south of Henry Lawson Estate and has an area of ~8.5ha. Whilst this is outside the Urban Area – it is a key facility for the Town of Grenfell. Council has not raised any significant issues with capacity of this facility for the next 10-20 years at this time but this should have ongoing review.

May 2019 - Version C Page | 45 DRAFT (For Public Exhibition) Part A - Local Profile - Grenfell (Land Use/Settlement) Strategy, Weddin Shire NSW 7 COMMUNITY FACILITIES & RECREATION It is important to note this is not a detailed land use study for community facilities and recreation areas and so it has not been included in Part B – Strategy and is more of background information. Generally, community uses are permissible across a variety of zones and recreation areas are well catered for in Grenfell. However, it is worth a brief review to confirm no major planning issues are raised.

7.1 Types & Locations Community facilities are generally permissible across a variety of zones. Some of the important key community & recreation facilities in the Town of Grenfell include, but are not limited to: Community 1. Education facilities like the local public and high schools and TAFE NSW 2. Medical facilities like the multipurpose health service/hospital and proposed new medical centre 3. Aged care accommodation and facilities (see Residential Chapter for independent living discussions) 4. Community facilities like churches, clubs, charity organisations, aged and disability services 5. Emergency service facilities like police, fire and rescue, rural fire service, and ambulance 6. Government facilities such as the Weddin Shire Council offices, Tourism Hub and NSW Government offices Recreation 1. Henry Lawson Oval & Lawson Park (south – Henry Lawson Way/Lawson Drive) 2. Stan McCabe Oval (south near school) 3. Vaughn Park & Swimming Pool (CBD) (Weddin Regional Aquatic & Fitness Centre) (north-Melyra St) 4. Grenfell Bowling Club (north – Cross St) 5. Taylor Park (Town Centre – Weddin St) 6. Golf Course (north) 7. Rugby Union Club / Football Field (west – Grafton St) 8. O'Briens Hill Lookout (E3 zone) 9. Rotary Park (south – Forbes & South Streets) 10. Proctor Park & Memorial Park (north-east – Short St/Burrangong St) 11. Grenfell Showgrounds & Paceway (north – Alexandra St) 12. Racecourse (south-west – Holy Camp Rd) 13. Arboretum (north – Gooloogong Rd) 14. Lions Park at the Grenfell Railway Station

7.2 Health & Aged Care 7.2.1 Multipurpose Health Centre The Multipurpose Health Facility (hospital) located at 80-96 Cowra Road is 24-hours and part of the Western NSW Local Health Department. It has 34 residential aged care beds, 26 high care beds, and 8 low care beds with one of these beds designated for respite care. The facility also has 7 beds designated for acute inpatient and palliative care. Medical services are provided by a visiting medical officer (daily). There is a single bed emergency department (www.wnswlhd.health.nsw.gov.au). It includes Grenfell Community Health Centre Nursing Service, Dietetics Service, Physiotherapy Service, and Women's Health Service. This facility currently sits in Zone R1 General Residential where 'health services facility' is permissible with consent. This site has some additional area for growth but is on steeper land that may increase costs for development. No planning changes required at this time. 7.2.2 Medical Centre There are a number of existing medical centres/services in Grenfell. However, there has been a struggle to keep and attract doctors/health practitioners. Council is currently constructing a new medical centre including six consulting rooms, minor operations room, practice manager and nurses' rooms, reception area, ambulance bay, and dental services ('Health Hub') on Main Street that is aimed at attracting a wider range of medical practitioners and providing a greater range of medical services to the community. May 2019 - Version C Page | 46 DRAFT (For Public Exhibition) Part A - Local Profile - Grenfell (Land Use/Settlement) Strategy, Weddin Shire NSW This facility currently sits in Zone B2 Local Centre where 'health services facility' is permissible with consent. No planning changes required at this time.

Figure 42: Architect's illustration of the proposed new medical centre in Main St (Source: Council Fact Sheet). 7.2.3 Aged Care Provision Council's Wellness Plan 2018-2022 contains a good summary of the Grenfell Multipurpose Centre (MPS), availability of general practitioners, the new proposed Grenfell Health Hub (under construction in 2018-2019), and aged care provision and services (pages 20-21). The Wellness Plan also highlighted estimated short-falls in aged care residential places in Grenfell MPS as follows: The current (2014) allocation of high care residential places at Grenfell MPS (26) is commensurate with that required under the Commonwealth formula. The 2014 allocation of low care residential places (8) is less than that required under the formula, with an additional 20 places required. The formula also indicates a current (2014) requirement [need] for 16 HCPs. In 2021, the need for additional residential places in addition to the current allocations is projected to be eight (8) high care residential and twenty-eight (28) low care places. This however assumes that the population will continue to change at the same rate as projected. Residents of Weddin will require access to 20 HCPs.

Figure 43: Weddin LGA Aged Care service estimate requirements to 2021 (Source: Figure 10 Wellness Plan). There is evidence of growing supply of seniors living and other suitable housing near the Town Centre. Where it is appropriate, this should be facilitated with good connections into the town centre to improve ageing-in-place, lifestyle and amenity, and activation of the town centre. Links to key recreation and other facilities should also be considered in any Urban Design Strategy. Ideally, the preferred land for aged care and seniors living should be outside of the Flood Planning Area (or even Probable Maximum Flood – PMF) – but this cannot always be achieved and much of the growth of aged care appears to be occurring to the north of the town centre on the flatter (and possibly cheaper) lands. There is a waiting list for two-bedroom affordable units. See the Residential Strategy for more comments on medium density housing provision and principles to guide this growth.

May 2019 - Version C Page | 47 DRAFT (For Public Exhibition) Part A - Local Profile - Grenfell (Land Use/Settlement) Strategy, Weddin Shire NSW 7.3 Education & Training Grenfell is fortunate to have a range of local education services and facilities for child care, primary and secondary education and some provision of tertiary education including, but not limited to: 1) Childcare - Grenfell Pre-School & Long Day Care Centre – 35 Forbes St (licensed for 70 children) 2) Primary Schools: a) Saint Joseph's Primary School (K-6; 2017 – 49 students) b) Grenfell Public School (K-6; 2018 – 154 students) 3) Secondary School – The Henry Lawson High School (Gr.7-12; 2018 ~175 students) that includes standard curriculum, distance education, as well as TAFE vocational education training courses 4) Tertiary Education - Grenfell College / TAFE Western NSW offers programs that are aligned to job opportunities, industry requirements and community services in the region. A new facility has recently been constructed called a Connected Learning Centre (CLC) that will enhance study options and digital connections. The closest major universities are at in Orange, Dubbo and Bathurst. We have not reviewed capacity or growth issues for education in detail. However, there is evidence that local schools have excess capacity / reduced student numbers and it is critical that facilities/standards are maintained to attract families and investment, and educate the community. Education needs to be addressed regionally along with infrastructure and connectivity. The economic studies indicate weaknesses in training/skills alignment to local business demand. There may be opportunities for greater synergies between agriculture, industry and training facilities in the area to ensure skills match local demand (but this has not been examined in detail).

7.4 Recreation & Events 7.4.1 Overview / Strategic Planning This is not a detailed review of the existing recreation areas in and around Grenfell. A preliminary review suggests that Grenfell is relatively well serviced with recreational options including a showground and racetrack, sporting ovals, aquatic centre, skate park, and local parks and these facilities are utilised by the broader Weddin Shire community and attract both local and sub-regional events. There is unlikely to be any pressing need for new recreation lands to be identified and purchased by Council to service future growth. However, during peak tourist and local events there are likely to be pressures (such as tourist accommodation and camping) that may require further review. Most challenges will most likely centre around maintenance and safety of existing facilities and adapting them to changing recreational demands. It would appear that there is a Plan of Management for Henry Lawson Oval and a general management plan for the remaining community lands. This should be reviewed to check no more detailed plans are required for key community/recreation sites. Some key sites where there is conflicting use and demand for community may need a master plan to guide community and Council initiatives. 7.4.2 Zone RE1 Public Recreation Alignment There are two local parks where the current land use zoning does not appear to align with the park boundaries. This does not preclude those parks from operating – but for administrative 'neatness' and alignment with community lands it may be worth rezoning land to Zone RE1 Public Recreation (where applicable). Taylor Park Taylor Park located at the corner of Weddin St and Middle St (behind the Council Offices) has Zone RE1 Public Recreation across the majority of the park (Lot 702 DP1023518) but the park now extends beyond these boundaries including lots through to Church St and Zone RE1 does not include the following lots (see Diagram below – Zone RE1 in bright green – remainder in Zone R1 General Residential):  Lot 7016 DP1023519;  Lots 6 & 16 Section 5 DP758473;  Rear part of Council offices Lots 1 & 2 Section 5 DP758473 Rotary Park Rotary Park located at the corner of Forbes St and South St currently includes Lot 10 Section 39 DP758473 in Zone RE1 Public Recreation, but not the adjacent Lot 91 DP1078529 that is in Zone R1 General Residential (see Diagram below – Zone RE1 in bright green – remainder in Zone R1 General Residential).

May 2019 - Version C Page | 48 DRAFT (For Public Exhibition) Part A - Local Profile - Grenfell (Land Use/Settlement) Strategy, Weddin Shire NSW

Figure 44: Taylor Park alignment of Zone RE1 Public Recreation (green) to actual park area (yellow dotted line).

Figure 45: Rotary Park alignment of Zone RE1 Public Recreation (green) to actual park area (yellow dotted line).

May 2019 - Version C Page | 49 DRAFT (For Public Exhibition) Part A - Local Profile - Grenfell (Land Use/Settlement) Strategy, Weddin Shire NSW 8 PLANNING POLICY FRAMEWORK It is important to understand the hierarchy of planning policy that is relevant to this Strategy:

Figure 46: Example of Planning Policy Hierarchy from Local Housing Strategy Guideline (Source: Figure.2).

8.1 State 8.1.1 NSW State Plan The NSW Government prepares its own higher-level objectives for growth and services across NSW including the Premier's Priorities (see www.nsw.gov.au). Generally, the objectives at the NSW level have filtered down to the Regional Plan for the area and are more specific to Weddin Shire and Grenfell – so these are addressed below. 8.1.2 NSW (2018) Local Housing Strategy Guideline This is addressed in detail in the Residential Strategy.

May 2019 - Version C Page | 50 DRAFT (For Public Exhibition) Part A - Local Profile - Grenfell (Land Use/Settlement) Strategy, Weddin Shire NSW 8.1.3 Relevant State Environmental Planning Policies A State Environmental Planning Policy (SEPP) is a planning document that deals with matters of significance for environmental planning for the State. There are a large number of SEPPs applicable to Weddin Shire and Grenfell depending on the type of land use / development being addressed. It is important to demonstrate the Strategy's consistency with key SEPPs that are relevant to growth of urban uses in Grenfell as set out in the table below. INFRASTRUCTURE / RESOURCES State Environmental Planning Policy (Infrastructure) 2007 This SEPP is concerned with appropriate opportunities for infrastructure development throughout the State and protecting that infrastructure from incompatible development. Please see the Infrastructure Section of Part A – Local Profile for details. This Strategy does not prevent the application of this SEPP to relevant areas/zones and seeks to protect critical infrastructure. State Environmental Planning Policy (Mining, Petroleum Production and Extractive Industries) 2007 & Draft Amendments This SEPP is concerned with the appropriate protection of resources and mining/extractive industries. Please see the Environment Section of Part A – Local Profile for details. Generally, growth in and around Grenfell is not into areas of known or likely significant mineral resources or is into existing urban lands. This Strategy does not prevent the application of this SEPP to relevant areas/zones.

ENVIRONMENT SEPP No 55 – Remediation of Land & Draft Amendments This SEPP seeks to promote remediation of contaminated land and reduce the risk of harm to human health – to be considered when rezoning land or consenting to development on land. Clause 6 states that contaminated land should be remediated appropriately when rezoning. Whilst not all contaminated land has been reviewed in this Strategy, where growth/investigation areas are proposed these generally have a low risk of contamination or are suited to purpose and can be addressed further as part of any rezoning proposal. This Strategy does not prevent the application of this SEPP to relevant areas/zones. SEPP No 44- Koala Habitat Protection & Draft Amendments This SEPP aims to encourage the conservation and management of natural vegetation areas that provide habitat for koalas to ensure permanent free-living populations will be maintained over their present range. Please see the Environment Section of Part A – Local Profile for details. Generally, growth in and around Grenfell is not into areas of known or likely significant vegetation or likely koala habitat areas. Strategic planning outcomes are likely to be transferred to Ministerial Directions if the Draft Amendments are adopted. This Strategy does not prevent the application of this SEPP to relevant areas/zones. State Environmental Planning Policy (Vegetation in Non-Rural Areas) 2017 This SEPP is concerned with protecting the biodiversity values and amenity of significant vegetation in non-rural areas (that includes Zone R5 Large Lot Residential). It applies to a range of urban zones that would affect Grenfell. Generally, growth in and around Grenfell is not into areas of known or likely significant vegetation or vegetation impacts can be minimised as part of any future rezoning/development strategy (if supported by relevant studies). This Strategy does not prevent the application of this SEPP to relevant areas/zones.

HOUSING SEPP (Affordable Rental Housing) 2009, Draft Amendments & SEPP (Housing for Seniors or People with a Disability) 2004 The aim of these two policies is to encourage and facilitate development of affordable rental housing and housing for seniors or people with a disability. This Strategy looks briefly at affordability and provision of housing for different groups and seeks to facilitate it within Grenfell, where appropriate. It does not seek to change the application of these policies in appropriate areas / zones. State Environmental Planning Policy (BASIX) 2004 This SEPP is concerned with appropriate water and energy consumption and sustainable residential development. The Strategy does not affect the application of BASIX to any applicable dwelling applications. Council supports appropriate levels of water and energy efficiency in housing. It does not seek to change the application of this policy in appropriate areas / zones.

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SEPP No 21—Caravan Parks & SEPP No 36—Manufactured Home Estates The aim of these two policies is to encourage and facilitate development of caravan parks (and thereby also permit manufactured home estates) in certain zones/areas. This is likely to be permissible with consent in Zone R1 General Residential in Grenfell and this Strategy does not seek to change the application of this policy in this or any other relevant area / zones. SEPP No 65 – Design Quality of Residential Apartment Development The aim of this policy is to provide design guidelines for new residential apartment buildings. There are currently no known apartment buildings in Grenfell and they are unlikely to be a common development in a rural town for some time – but this Strategy does not seek to change the application of this policy in appropriate areas/ zones.

BUSINESS / COMMUNITY SEPP No 64—Advertising and Signage This SEPP governs advertising and signage in all zones. Advertising and signage are not specifically addressed in this Strategy and is more likely to be reviewed in an Urban Design Study or Development Controls. This Strategy does not seek to change the application of this policy in appropriate areas / zones. SEEP No.33 – Hazardous and Offensive Development This SEPP seeks to guide the approvals for potentially hazardous and offensive development. This Strategy reviews higher impact businesses in the Industrial Strategy section and seeks to promote buffers to minimise impacts on sensitive uses adjacent. This Strategy does not seek to change the application of this policy in appropriate areas / zones. SEPP (Educational Establishments and Child Care Facilities) 2017 This SEPP seeks to facilitate delivery of educational establishments and early education and care facilities across the State by simplifying and standardising controls and processes. Opportunities for these uses have not been specifically reviewed for Grenfell as growth is likely to be limited. However, this Strategy does not seek to change the application of this policy in appropriate areas / zones.

AGRICULTURE / RURAL SEPP (Primary Production and Rural Development) 2019 (PP&RD SEPP) The PP&RD SEPP seeks to manage primary production lands for economic use, to reduce land use conflict, to identify State significant agricultural land, to encourage sustainable agriculture, and some more specific aspects. Whilst this is an 'urban' land use strategy – it does have some implications for rural zoned and agricultural lands where future investigation areas extend beyond the existing urban boundary. None of the land identified is State significant agricultural land in May 2019. This Strategy takes into account and seeks to minimise impacts on agricultural land from any proposed growth/investigation areas. Where possible urban growth utilises other urban lands (such as Large lot residential lands) in priority to agricultural lands.

May 2019 - Version C Page | 52 DRAFT (For Public Exhibition) Part A - Local Profile - Grenfell (Land Use/Settlement) Strategy, Weddin Shire NSW 8.1.4 Ministerial Directions The Minister under the Environmental Planning & Assessment Act 1979 is able to issue directions under Section 9.1 of the Act that apply to matters that will affect the preparation of local environmental plans and rezoning proposals (that would include strategic land use plans). These were most recently updated in February 2019. Section 117 Objectives Applicable to this Strategy Direction 1. Employment and Resources 1.1 Business & a) encourage employment growth in We are retaining the existing areas of employment Industrial Zones suitable locations, lands and looking to find new areas for expansion. b) protect employment land in business There is no planned reduction in employment floor and industrial zones, and space. (see Commercial / Industrial Strategy). c) support the viability of identified Consistent. centres. 1.2 Rural Zones a) protect the agricultural production This Strategy suggests some areas of rural land that value of rural land, may be considered for rezoning to residential, b) facilitate the orderly and economic use business, or industrial zones and seeks to justify that and development of rural lands for rural inconsistency in this Strategy. Justified. and related purposes, The Council is currently preparing a LSPS. The c) assist in the proper management, Regional Plan is addressed below. The lands development and protection of rural adjacent to Grenfell are not of State or Regional lands to promote the social, economic agricultural significance but are important to local and environmental welfare of the State, production. 1.5 Rural Lands d) minimise the potential for land The Strategy seeks to minimise intrusion into rural fragmentation and land use conflict in lands of significant agricultural value, protect the rural areas, particularly between right to farm, and minimise further rural land residential and other rural land uses, fragmentation. Urban expansion is adjacent to e) encourage sustainable land use existing urban lands. It is broadly consistent with the practices and ensure the ongoing Rural Planning & Subdivision Principles (formerly in viability of agriculture on rural land the Rural Lands SEPP). f) support the delivery of the actions Consistent. outlined in the New South Wales Right to Farm Policy.

1.3 Mining, ensure that the future extraction of State or Not affected (see SEPPs above). Petroleum regionally significant reserves of coal, other Consistent. Production & minerals, petroleum and extractive materials Extractive are not compromised by inappropriate Industries development. 1.4 Oyster Not Applicable Not Applicable Aquaculture 2. Environment and Heritage 2.1 Environment protect and conserve environmentally Generally, the Strategy does not reduce but seeks to Protection sensitive areas improve environmental outcomes in the urban area. Zones The only impact on environmental zone is potentially slight reductions in Zone E3 that was created for mine subsidence purposes and this issue would be verified before the rezoning proceeded. Therefore, it does not reduce the environmental protection standards that apply to the land. Consistent/Justified. 2.2 Coastal Not Applicable. Not Applicable Management 2.3 Heritage conserve items, areas, objects and places of The Strategy recognises the importance of heritage Conservation environmental heritage significance and to Grenfell and does not remove any heritage items indigenous heritage significance or conservation areas. It seeks to minimise any significant impacts to these heritage items/areas and promotes sensitive adaptive re-use of heritage items (where applicable). Consistent. 2.4 Recreation No known recreational vehicle areas under Not Applicable Vehicle Areas the Act in Grenfell.

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2.5 E2/E3 Zones & Not Applicable. Not Applicable Environmental Overlays Far North Coast 3. Housing, Infrastructure and Urban Development 3.1 Residential a) to encourage a variety and choice of This Strategy is consistent as it seeks to: Zones housing types to provide for existing a) broaden the choice of building types and and future housing needs, locations available in the housing market, and b) to make efficient use of existing b) make more efficient use of existing infrastructure and services and ensure infrastructure and services, and that new housing has appropriate c) reduce the consumption of land for housing and access to infrastructure and services, associated urban development on the urban c) to minimise the impact of residential fringe, development on the environment and d) be of good design, resource lands. e) ensure housing land is suitably serviced, f) doesn't contain provisions that will reduce the permissible residential density (it tries to increase it where suitable). (see Residential Strategy) Consistent. 3.2 Caravan Parks & a) to provide for a variety of housing types, This Strategy encourages a range of housing types Manufactured and and does not affect the ability for caravan parks or Home Estates b) to provide opportunities for caravan MHEs to be carried out on suitable land in Grenfell parks and manufactured home estates. (see Residential Strategy). Consistent. 3.3 Home encourage the carrying out of low-impact Permissibility of home occupations not affected (see Occupations small businesses indwelling houses Commercial Strategy). Consistent. 3.4 Integrating ensure that urban structures, building forms, These planning objectives are incorporated into the Land Use & land use locations, development designs, Vision, Objectives, and Development Principles for Transport subdivision and street layouts achieve the each of the land uses in the Strategy. The Strategy following planning objectives: promotes suitably compact urban form (for a rural a) improving access to housing, jobs and town) and accessibility. Consistent. services by walking, cycling and public transport, and b) increasing the choice of available transport and reducing dependence on cars, and c) reducing travel demand including the number of trips generated by development and the distances travelled, especially by car, and d) supporting the efficient and viable operation of public transport services, e) providing for the efficient movement of freight. 3.5 Development No airports at Grenfell. Not Applicable Near Regulated Airports & Defence Airfields 3.6 Shooting a) to maintain appropriate levels of public Only future investigation area RE1 is near an existing Ranges safety and amenity when rezoning land rifle range. The priority on rezoning this land is very adjacent to an existing shooting range, low and would be subject to addressing a number of b) to reduce land use conflict arising constraints on the land including, but not limited to between existing shooting ranges and the impacts of increased residential densities near rezoning of adjacent land, the range and noise/safety issues. Consistent / c) to identify issues that must be Justified. addressed when giving consideration to rezoning land adjacent to an existing shooting range. 3.7 Reduction in a) mitigate significant impacts of short- This Strategy does not seek to reduce the non- non-hosted term rental accommodation where non- hosted short-term rental accommodation period of short-term hosted short-term rental 90 days. Consistent. rental accommodation period are to be reduced, and May 2019 - Version C Page | 54 DRAFT (For Public Exhibition) Part A - Local Profile - Grenfell (Land Use/Settlement) Strategy, Weddin Shire NSW

accommodation b) ensure the impacts of short-term rental period accommodation and views of the community are considered. 4. Hazard & Risk 4.1 Acid Sulfate avoid significant adverse environmental Not Applicable Soils impacts from the use of land that has a probability of containing acid sulfate soils 4.2 Mine prevent damage to life, property and the This Strategy has identified land as potentially Subsidence & environment on land identified as unstable unstable in and around Grenfell from historic mine Unstable Land or potentially subject to mine subsidence workings but the findings are very preliminary. Therefore, any planning proposal must consult with the Mine Subsidence Board and consider the scale, density and type of development that is appropriate. It does not affect existing development opportunities in the Zone R1 area. Consistent. 4.3 Flood Prone a) to ensure that development of flood Strategy applies principles consistent with the NSW Land prone land is consistent with the NSW Flood Prone Land Policy and Floodplain Government’s Flood Prone Land Policy Development Manual. It promotes growth outside and the principles of the Floodplain flood prone lands except for the possible growth of Development Manual 2005, and the town centre to the north that is subject to b) to ensure that the provisions of an LEP further flood studies but we suggest commercial on flood prone land is commensurate uses are better than residential uses on that flood with flood hazard and includes prone land. consideration of the potential flood Consistent / Justified. impacts both on and off the subject land. 4.4 Planning for a) to protect life, property and the Strategy applies principles and is consistent. Bushfire environment from bush fire hazards, by Bushfire prone land to north of Grenfell only Protection discouraging the establishment of affected by future investigation area RE4 and subject incompatible land uses in bush fire to additional studies (not a priority area). prone areas, and Consistent/ Justified. b) to encourage sound management of bush fire prone areas. 5. Regional Planning 5.1 Regional Not Applicable to Grenfell/Weddin Shire Not Applicable. Strategies (South Coast/ Sydney-Canberra only). 5.2 Sydney Drinking Not in the Sydney drinking water catchment. Not Applicable. Water Catchment 5.10 Implementation give legal effect to the vision, land use Central West & Orange Regional Plan addressed of Regional strategy, goals, directions and actions below. Consistent / Justified. Plans contained in Regional Plans. 5.11 Development of Only Applicable to lands in the Central Coast Not Applicable. Aboriginal Land LGA. Council Land 6. Local Plan Making 6.1 Approval & ensure that LEP provisions encourage the No change in assessment outcomes except for Mine Referral efficient and appropriate assessment of Subsidence lands. Consistent / Justified. Requirements development. 6.2 Reserving Land a) to facilitate the provision of public The Residential Strategy makes some suggestions for for Public services and facilities by reserving land aligning zoning of two parks in Grenfell and if this Purposes for public purposes, and proceeds it would occur in accordance with any b) to facilitate the removal of reservations relevant requirements. Can be Consistent. of land for public purposes where the land is no longer required for acquisition. 6.3 Site Specific discourage unnecessarily restrictive site- No site-specific controls are proposed but this Provisions specific planning controls. Strategy suggests priorities based on site- constraints. 7. Metropolitan Planning – NOT APPLICABLE (Sydney only)

May 2019 - Version C Page | 55 DRAFT (For Public Exhibition) Part A - Local Profile - Grenfell (Land Use/Settlement) Strategy, Weddin Shire NSW 8.2 Regional 8.2.1 Central West & Orana Regional Plan 2036 The Central West & Orana Regional Plan 2036 (June 2017) is the applicable 'Regional Plan' for Weddin Shire. It is part of the State planning hierarchy and should inform all strategic planning and preparation of Local Plans. Weddin Shire sits at the edge of this 'region' with Riverina-Murray to the south-west and South-East & Tablelands to the south-east. The main Directions are highlighted in green where they are particularly relevant to this Strategy.

Local Government Narratives The Weddin Shire Local Government Area in the region’s south is located two hours from Orange, Canberra, Wagga Wagga and Dubbo. The local service centre of Grenfell provides services to the surrounding community. The Local Government Area had an estimated population of 3,701 in 2015 and contributed $133 million to GRP in 2011. The Local Government Area contains historic cultural and built environs. Its economy is primarily driven by the agriculture sector, which accounts for two-thirds of local businesses. It supports a variety of agricultural enterprises, including broadacre cropping and grazing, associated agribusinesses, manufacturing, logistics, and retail businesses centred in and around Grenfell.

Priorities Response Support the primacy of the Grenfell main street Please see the Commercial Strategy that seeks to support and and central business district. enhance the main street whilst providing some alternative areas for commercial growth. Enhance tourism by developing Weddin’s built Please see Local Profile and discussion around heritage that and social heritage environment. seeks to protect & enhance Grenfell's built environment. See the Commercial Strategy for potential tourism opportunities. Continue to deliver a high standard of health and Please see the Local Profile and discussion around community community services, facilities and infrastructure facilities and infrastructure that are permissible in a broad to residents and visitors. range of zones. Support agriculture, including broadacre The Grenfell Strategy is primarily focussed on urban areas but cropping and grazing, and agribusiness also seeks to minimise growth impacts on surrounding rural diversification. lands (see SEPP review above). See the Industrial Strategy for more discussion on agribusiness opportunities. Leverage opportunities to support freight and See the Industrial Strategy and infrastructure section of Local logistics industries. Profile. Leverage opportunities from agricultural See the Industrial Strategy and opportunities within Local production through value-added manufacturing Profile. and associated industries. Protect important agricultural land from The Grenfell Strategy is primarily focussed on urban areas but encroachment from inappropriate development. overlaps with rural zones where growth is proposed. Protection of agricultural land is one of the key considerations.

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Goal / Direction Actions Comments

Goal 1: The most diverse regional economy in NSW Direction 1 Protect 1.1 Release a regional agricultural development strategy that: Whilst this is not a Rural / Agricultural Strategy, one aim of the Grenfell the region's diverse  maps important agricultural land; (Settlement) Strategy is to balance the growth of the town with & productive  identifies emerging opportunities for agriculture; and minimising urban expansion into highly productive agricultural land. agricultural land  sets the direction for local planning of agricultural development. There is no biophysical strategic agricultural land (BSAL) near Grenfell 1.2 Protect important agricultural land from land use conflict and and only limited irrigation areas. fragmentation, and manage the interface between important This Strategy reviews supply and demand for key land uses and suggests agricultural lands and other land uses. appropriate locations for growth that take into account agricultural 1.3 Implement the NSW Government’s Agriculture Industry Action Plan – viability as a key constraint. Primed for growth: Investing locally, connecting globally. Therefore, there is appropriate protection for highly valuable agricultural 1.4 Undertake biosecurity risk assessments, taking into account land and appropriate setbacks from larger holdings to minimise land use biosecurity plans and the need for appropriate buffer areas. conflicts. See particularly the Residential & Industrial Strategies. Direction 2: Grow 2.1 Encourage agribusiness diversification and value-adding opportunities One of the key drivers for the Strategy is to provide more serviced the agribusiness by reviewing local plans to ensure land use zoning and definitions industrial land (aligned with growth projections) that has the potential to sector & supply reflect industry requirements. support the growth of the agri-business sector that may be suited to the chains 2.2 Guide local and strategic planning to protect agricultural land, and Weddin Shire. These land uses are facilitated by this Strategy. manage the interface with other land uses. Rural lands continue to permit 'rural industry' types and this will continue 2.3 Facilitate investment in the agricultural supply chain by protecting to facilitate agriculture and agri-business in those areas where servicing/ assets such as freight and logistics facilities from land use conflict and utilities are less of a requirement. the encroachment of incompatible land uses. See Industrial Strategy. Direction 3: Develop 3.1 Promote investment in advanced and value-added manufacturing in advanced employment lands through suitable land use zonings and land use Further opportunities may be identified in the following: manufacturing & definitions in local environmental plans.  Central West Food & Fibre Strategy (CENTROC) food processing 3.2 Locate advanced and value-added manufacturing industries and  Agribusiness Diversification & Value-Added Manufacturing Options sectors associated infrastructure to minimise potential land use conflict. Paper (June 2018) 3.3 Encourage co-location of related advanced and value-added  Regional Agricultural Development Strategy (Due Later 2019) manufacturing industries to maximise efficiency and infrastructure use, decrease supply chain costs, increase economies of scale and attract further investment. 3.4 Develop a food and fibre strategy for the Central West, reflecting the opportunities identified in Regional Development Australia Central West’s Value Adding to Agriculture in Central West NSW study.

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Direction 4: Promote 4.1 Align land use and tourism strategies with a Destination Management The current zonings permit a wide range of tourist and visitor & diversify regional Plan for the Country and Outback NSW Destination Network. accommodation across the Grenfell urban area so no major planning tourism markets 4.2 Work with councils to improve tourism-related transport services. control changes are proposed at this time. However, there is a need to 4.3 Develop the region’s capacity to grow food and wine tourism. improve the quality and range of accommodation options and upgrade 4.4 Enable opportunities appropriate for tourism development and existing options. associated land uses in local environmental plans. Council's Tourism Strategy and Economic Development Strategy seek to 4.5 Target experiential tourism opportunities and develop tourism facilitate tourism in and around Grenfell utilising both its natural management frameworks to promote a variety of accommodation character and heritage and numerous assets and attractions of the town options. and surrounding sub-region. This land use is facilitated by this Strategy. 4.6 Encourage tourism development in natural areas that support conservation outcomes. Direction 5: Improve 5.1 Establish health precincts around hospitals in regional cities and One of the key roles for Grenfell in Weddin Shire is as the primary access to health & strategic centres. provider of health and aged care services & education facilities. The aged care services 5.2 Promote mixed-use facilities and research and accommodation development by Council of the Grenfell Medical Centre combined with a precincts for the health and aged care service sectors. growing nucleus of aged care provision in the town provides the 5.3 Facilitate the development of multipurpose, flexible and adaptable opportunity for people to age-in-place and provide timely and pro-active health and education infrastructure. health care. 5.4 Minimise the encroachment of inappropriate and incompatible land The Section on Community land uses in Part A – Local Profile reviews the uses near existing and proposed health facilities. health services and the Residential Strategy briefly reviews the provision of aged care and potential for medium-density growth in the town. Direction 6: Expand 6.1 Work with stakeholders and the region’s education providers to One of the key roles for Grenfell in Weddin Shire is as the primary education & training identify opportunities to address skills shortages through tailored provider of education & training opportunities. The development by opportunities regional training programs. TAFE of the new training centre on George St combined with existing 6.2 Promote the development of education precincts around universities primary & secondary school education in the town provides the and other educational facilities to allow people to specialise in rural opportunity for people to access a high level of education services for the studies and to cater for international students. town's size (in comparison to many regional towns) and attract and 6.3 Facilitate joint-venture opportunities for shared community and maintain families. The Section on Community land uses in Part A – Local school facilities on school sites, including sporting fields, amenities, Profile reviews the education services. parking, community halls, child care, arts and library facilities. Direction 7: Enhance 7.1 Work with the Local Aboriginal Land Councils on strategic This Strategy seeks to prevent impact on and protect known Aboriginal the economic self- assessments of their landholdings to identify priority sites with cultural assets and recognise the important role the Aboriginal determination of economic development potential. community plays in Grenfell. It also seeks to promote local employment, Aboriginal 7.2 Identify priority sites that can create a pipeline of potential projects health care, and education that can lead to improved economic communities for the Local Aboriginal Land Councils to consider. outcomes. However, a land use strategy is not the primary instrument for enhancing economic self-determination or specific LALC assets. Further consultation with the LALC will occur as part of the exhibition of this Strategy.

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Direction 8: 8.1 Consult with the Division of Resources and Geosciences when This Strategy seeks to prevent impact on and protect known mineral Sustainably manage assessing applications for land use changes (strategic land use resources in and around Grenfell and recognise their importance to the mineral resources planning, rezoning and planning proposals) and new development or shire economy. expansions. There are no major mineral resources near the town or across the Shire 8.2 Protect areas with potential mineral and energy resources extraction highlighted in the Regional Plan so mining is less likely to be a major through local land use strategies and local environmental plans. contributor to the local economy. 8.3 Protect infrastructure that facilitates mining from development that However, there are exploration licences across most of the western side could affect current or future extraction. of town and local quarries to the north. These are not considered a major 8.4 Support communities that transition out of mining to manage change constraint to future development of Grenfell at this time as growth in population and demand for services, and explore new economic proposals are to the south, east and west. opportunities. 8.5 Work with councils to scope the application and implementation of a scenario planning or impact modelling tool to be applied at a regional level to help communities plan for the impacts of mining. Direction 9: Increase 9.1 Identify locations with renewable energy generation potential and This Strategy does not specifically address renewable energy generation renewable energy access to the electricity network. (more likely in rural areas) but does seek to improve sustainability of generation 9.2 Facilitate small-scale renewable energy projects using bioenergy, development and does not preclude any appropriate increase in solar, wind, small-scale hydro, geothermal or other innovative storage generation where it can be supported by the electricity infrastructure/ technologies through local environment plans. network or utilised on sites. 9.3 Promote best practice community engagement and maximise Industry and larger businesses with higher energy consumption have community benefits from all utility-scale renewable energy projects. significant potential to add and access renewable energy generation to improve sustainability, marketability, and viability of these businesses. However, there are limitations in the existing electricity infrastructure to Grenfell to support generation in this area. Direction 10: 10.1 Encourage the sustainable development of industrial and One of the key drivers for the Strategy is to provide more serviced Promote business & employment land to maximise infrastructure and connect to the industrial (and possibly business) land (aligned with growth projections) industrial activities existing freight network. that has the potential to support the growth of business & industrial in employment lands 10.2 Use local environmental plans to promote the development of activities in employment lands (where rural land is not suitable for those specialised industry clusters and the co-location of related uses and connection to reticulated utilities is required). industries. The Industrial Strategy provides a review of supply and demand for 10.3 Encourage the consolidation of isolated, unused or underused serviced industrial land in Grenfell. It supports Council's aim to pockets of industrial land to create long-term development investigate additional serviced industrial land close to Grenfell to opportunities. promote local businesses, support agriculture, increase synergies and 10.4 Identify industrial and employment land opportunities and reduce cost-efficiencies, improve environmental outcomes and reduce land use land use conflicts through local land use strategies. conflicts. Where possible existing industrial lands will be protected 10.5 Monitor the supply and demand of industrial land in strategic and/or investigated for future expansion. centres to inform the planning and coordination of utility The Commercial Strategy has a key focus on protecting and enhancing infrastructure to support new development. the town centre and Main Street area. However, due to the fragmented May 2019 - Version C Page | 59 DRAFT (For Public Exhibition) Part A - Local Profile - Grenfell (Land Use/Settlement) Strategy, Weddin Shire NSW 10.6 Accommodate future commercial and retail activity in existing subdivision pattern there is limited land supply for new business growth. commercial centres, unless there is a demonstrated need or social Some additional lands for investigation are proposed for growth that will and economic benefits to locating this activity elsewhere. either naturally expand the town centre and/or create business 10.7 Require proposals for new retail development to demonstrate how enterprise areas that do not necessarily compete with the town centre. they: This land use is facilitated by this Strategy.  respond to retail demand;  respond to innovations in the  retail sector;  maximise public transport and  community infrastructure  commensurate with the scale of  the proposal; and  enhance the quality of public areas. Direction 11: 11.1 Implement the Murray–Darling Basin Plan to ensure a balance of This Strategy does not specifically look at water quantity or quality Sustainably manage social, economic and environmental outcomes. (particularly for agriculture or river systems) but acknowledges that there water resources for 11.2 Finalise water resource plans and long-term watering plans for are water constraints on growth and identifies some current projects to economic surface water and groundwater systems in accordance with the enable that growth. opportunities Murray–Darling Basin Plan. Please see the Local Profile for discussion around water infrastructure 11.3 Plan for high-water use industries in locations with water access and and capacity. A principle is that, where possible, urban development security. should be connected to reticulated water and sewer to minimise impacts 11.4 Enhance the productive capacity of land in the Namoi, Macquarie on groundwater and surface water systems. and Lachlan irrigation areas by limiting encroachment of inappropriate and incompatible land uses. 11.5 Provide guidance for development in areas of groundwater vulnerability. Direction 12: Plan for 12.1 Conduct a pilot study with Central NSW Councils (CENTROC) to This Strategy is focussed primarily on urban uses including industrial uses greater land use investigate practical on-ground mechanisms to help avoid land use where there is a strong focus to avoid or minimise land use conflicts (as compatibility conflict between intensive agricultural uses and other sensitive well as conflicts with growth or adjacency to agricultural lands). uses. 12.2 Identify and protect important agricultural land in local plans. 12.3 Create local strategies to limit urban and rural housing development in agricultural and extractive resource areas, industrial areas and transport corridors. 12.4 Amend planning controls to deliver greater certainty of land use. 12.5 Provide non-statutory guidance on appropriate and sympathetic land use in areas where land use conflicts occur.

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Goal 2: A stronger, healthier environment and diverse heritage Direction 13: Protect 13.1 Protect high environmental value assets through local environmental plans. Most of the major environmental assets of Weddin & manage 13.2 Minimise potential impacts arising from development in areas of high environmental are in the National Parks around Grenfell and in environmental value, and consider offsets or other mitigation mechanisms for unavoidable impacts. wetlands to the west of the Shire. However, Emu assets 13.3 Improve the quality of, and access to, information relating to high environmental value. Creek, the Bogolong Hills, and the Travelling Stock Reserves around Grenfell provide significant local 13.4 Develop a Biodiversity Conservation Investment Strategy to identify priority investment ecological corridors and amenity to the town and areas and principles for investment. are identified in the Regional Strategy as having high 13.5 Recognise, plan for and consider the production, cultural heritage, recreation and environmental value. ecological conservation values of Travelling Stock Reserves in local land use strategies. There is not a significant area of high or moderately Direction 14: 14.1 Adopt an integrated approach to water cycle management across the region that sensitive biodiversity within the urban area but it Manage & conserve considers climate change, water security, sustainable demand and growth, and the does preclude some development to the north of water resources for natural environment. town and along the key watercourses. the environment 14.2 Locate, design, construct and manage new development to minimise impacts on water catchments, including downstream areas and groundwater sources. Travelling Stock Reserves primarily move livestock 14.3 Minimise the impacts of development on fish habitat, aquaculture, commercialised and and provide supplementary grazing areas in times of recreational fishing, and waterways (including watercourses, wetlands and riparian drought, bushfire or flood. These can have regionally lands) and meet the Water Quality and River Flow Objectives. significant biodiversity value, as well as Aboriginal 14.4 Collaborate with industry and other catchment stakeholders to clarify changes to the cultural heritage value. Strategic planning can help supply and management of water for users and the environment. to carefully manage this land. 14.5 Plan for the effects of a changing climate on water availability and use for the environment, settlements, communities and industry. 'The fragility of the Central West and Orana’s Direction 15: 15.1 Locate developments, including new urban release areas, away from areas of known high landscape and climate variability mean that water Increase resilience to biodiversity value; areas with high risk of bushfire or flooding; contaminated land; and resources are vulnerable to individual and natural hazards & designated waterways. cumulative impacts. The location of development climate change 15.2 Incorporate the outcomes of the Enabling Regional Adaptation project to ensure future should mitigate risks to the environment and land use and planning decisions reduce regional climate change vulnerabilities. minimise negative effects on catchments, aquatic 15.3 Adopt a whole-of-government approach to information exchange on climate change habitats such as waterways and wetlands, and areas adaptation and preparedness. downstream'. 15.4 Respond to climate-related risks by applying and communicating fine-scale climate information to support decision-making. 15.5 Implement the requirements of the NSW Floodplain Development Manual by updating flood studies and floodplain risk management plans.

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Direction 16: 16.1 Protect, manage and respect Aboriginal objects and places in accordance with legislative This Strategy seeks to prevent impact on and Respect & protect requirements. protect known Aboriginal cultural assets and Aboriginal heritage 16.2 Undertake Aboriginal cultural heritage assessments to inform local land use strategies recognise the important role the Aboriginal assets and to identify any appropriate heritage management mechanism. community plays in Grenfell. See Part A - Local 16.3 Consult with Aboriginal people and the broader community during strategic planning to Profile and AHIMS search. identify and protect heritage values; minimise the impact of urban growth and Further consultation with the LALC will occur as part development; and recognise their contribution to the character and landscape of the of the exhibition of this Strategy. region. Direction 17: 17.1 Increase heritage protection and revitalise main streets and town centres through Part A – Local Profile makes some recommendations Conserve & community education and development incentives in local plans. for a further review of heritage items. The existing adaptively re-use 17.2 Prepare, review and update heritage studies in consultation with the wider community to Heritage Conservation Area also provides protection heritage assets recognise and conserve heritage assets and items, and include appropriate local planning for the main street / town centre area. The controls. Residential Strategy reviews potential for additional dwelling permissibility that may facilitate adaptive 17.3 Work with the Central NSW Councils (CENTROC) to scope barriers to the adaptive re- use re-use of under-utilised commercial buildings. of heritage items.

Goal 3 – Quality freight, transport and infrastructure networks Direction 18: Improve freight The purpose of this Urban land use strategy for Grenfell is limited in its ability to achieve outcomes for transport infrastructure that connections to markets & global are more wide ranging than just Grenfell and Weddin Shire. However, it seeks to recognise the importance of these networks to gateways growth, accessibility, and sustainability of Grenfell, particularly its position on a number of key State and Regional Roads, including the Direction 19: Enhance road & rail Mid Western Highway. Mary Gilmore Way / Gooloogong Road has been highlighted in the State Plan as having a road safety, flooding freight links or capacity issue that needs further review. Inland Rail & Blayney-Demondrille Rail proposals may have ramifications for Grenfell, mostly from flow-on effects from Parkes/Cowra and nearby inter-modal terminals. Direction 20: Enhance access to air

travel & public transport Direction 21: Coordinate utility 21.2 Work with stakeholders and High voltage electricity and gas limitations in Grenfell may have some effects on future infrastructure investment infrastructure providers to larger-scale industrial and rural industry opportunities in the area. In the longer-term investigate new funding models further review of expanding connections/capacity should be investigated. for utility infrastructure. It would appear that local provision of sewer and water systems is an impediment to some 21.3 Monitor development and ensure local residential and industrial growth potential. Council needs to ensure that that infrastructure is responsive to development uses existing infrastructure efficiently and only expands these were sufficient investment opportunities. demand and growth can be generated.

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Goal 4 – Dynamic, vibrant and healthy communities Direction 22: Manage 22.1 Coordinate infrastructure delivery across Grenfell is not noted as a regional city or strategic centre (it is a 'centre') and, as such, is growth & change in residential and industrial land in regional cities and not expected to experience comparable high levels of growth. However, Grenfell regional cities & strategic centres. makes an important contribution to the area by providing affordable housing, strategic & local centres 22.2 Reinforce the role, function and relationship attractive lifestyles and jobs. between regional cities and strategic centres in The NSW Government accepts there will be 'aspirational growth' that affects land use local housing strategies. planning decisions and vice-versa. We suggest the projected growth estimates and 22.3 Improve transport in regional cities and strategic recommendations in this Strategy provide a range of growth alternatives to meet centres, and their connections with regional future needs. communities. Whilst the Actions are focussed on regional cities and strategic centres, they can be equally applied to other 'centres' like Grenfell and this is addressed in the Local Profile Section of this Strategy (infrastructure, connections) and the Residential Strategy (housing). Direction 23: Build the 23.1 Update the Strengthening Rural Communities This Strategy seeks to better understand the drivers and implications of population resilience of towns & Resource Kit. decline and growth in Grenfell and to create a range of growth scenarios that are based villages 23.2 Work with councils to better understand the on reasonable data and projections. drivers of population change and implications for Whilst this land use strategy is only one part of the resilience 'toolbox' it prioritises local communities. growth aspects with the greatest potential to increase the sustainability of the town 23.3 Work with Central NSW Councils (CENTROC) and and its community. other stakeholders to investigate the potential for Whilst this is not an agricultural or rural strategy – it recognises that the future of standardisation of baseline data collection. Grenfell significantly relates to the success of rural industry in the Weddin Shire and 23.4 Build drought resilience in rural communities by surrounds and support for rural industry and agribusiness in Grenfell (see Industrial supporting primary producers and communities to and Commercial Strategies). improve preparedness and decision-making. Direction 24: 24.1 Develop partnerships and engagement protocols There is a lack of detailed information on Aboriginal housing issues and trends to Collaborate & partner with Aboriginal communities during the planning inform this Strategy, though no particular issues have been raised in the preparation of with Aboriginal process. the Draft Strategy. Further consultation with the LALC will occur as part of the communities 24.2 Engage Aboriginal communities during the exhibition of this Strategy. preparation of local housing strategies and local environmental plans. Direction 25: Increase 25.1 Prepare local housing strategies that increase The Residential Strategy has sought to address the NSW Government Draft Guidelines housing diversity & housing choice, including affordable housing for the creation of housing strategies addressing many of these requirements. choice options. One of the key recommendations of the Residential Strategy is to seek to increase 25.2 Increase housing choice in regional cities and housing choice and affordability. In part the market is already partly responding to strategic centres at locations near or accessible to demand with recent developments but there are still a number of barriers (real or services and jobs. perceived) to additional supply that are difficult to solve in smaller regional centres. Planning controls are less likely to be the best way of achieving improved housing mix and affordability as most issues arise from the economics of development. However,

May 2019 - Version C Page | 63 DRAFT (For Public Exhibition) Part A - Local Profile - Grenfell (Land Use/Settlement) Strategy, Weddin Shire NSW 25.3 Align infrastructure planning with new land release the Residential Strategy recommends a review of lot size to permit smaller areas to provide adequate and timely subdivisions. infrastructure. The Residential Strategy also align with locating addition housing density near services 25.4 Locate higher density development close to town and employment, taking into account constraints near the town centre. For small centres to capitalise on existing infrastructure and centres like Grenfell it is unnecessary to target specific sites though it has set out key increase housing choice. principles for growth. The Commercial Strategy also looks at housing options in the 25.5 Promote incentives to encourage greater housing town centre to promote flexibility without undermining the retail main street. affordability including a greater mix of housing in Future investigation areas have taken into account existing and likely future availability new release areas. of infrastructure and utilities though further engineering work is required to move 25.6 Prepare guidelines for local housing strategies to towards detailed design and costings. address local affordable housing needs. Whilst there are some gaps in the data to assess specific social, affordable, and rental 25.7 Work with councils to appropriately plan for future housing demands and trends – we have attempted to identify key issues and make social and affordable housing needs. suggestions on improvements. Direction 26: Increase 26.1 Promote ageing-in-place by adopting elements of The Regional Plan states that 'the increasing demand for appropriate accommodation housing choice for Livable Housing Australia’s Livable Housing Design options for older people has led to an undersupply of appropriate housing' – for a seniors Guidelines in development controls for housing, number of Shires including Weddin with a large proportion (greater than 30 per cent) where possible. of people aged 65 or over. 26.2 Promote opportunities for retirement villages, 'Local housing strategies must plan for a range of housing choices for seniors, including nursing homes and other senior’s housing in local retirement villages, nursing homes and opportunities to modify existing dwellings so housing strategies. that people can age in their own homes. Adaptable, liveable homes should be easy to 26.3 Remove planning barriers to provide a range of enter and navigate; responsive to the changing needs of occupants; and relatively easy low-care and independent seniors’ to adapt for injured or elderly residents, or people with a disability'. accommodation options in appropriate locations. 'State planning policies streamline approval processes for senior’s housing. The 26.4 Review State Environmental Planning Policy incentives in these policies need to be reviewed to better suit regional circumstances, as (Housing for Seniors or People with a Disability) benefits are often negated due to higher development costs and lower demand when 2004 to make it more applicable to private facilities only cater for small populations in regional areas compared to metropolitan developers in regional areas. areas'. 26.5 Locate new housing for seniors close to existing Grenfell already has a growing supply of aged care and retirement living options close services and facilities, and on land free from to the town centre - suggesting the market is responding to demand but further hazards. facilitation and incentives may be required. 26.6 Work with councils to investigate the demand for seniors housing and to identify barriers to providing low-care and independent senior’s accommodation options. 26.7 Work with Gilgandra Shire Council to produce a case study on Cooee Lodge Retirement Village to guide other councils developing aged care accommodation.

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Direction 27: Deliver a 27.1 Produce guidelines to help councils plan for and There have not been any significant issues highlighted for Grenfell in the provision of range of manage seasonal and itinerant worker seasonal and itinerant worker accommodation at this time, other than a shortage of accommodation options accommodation. rental properties. The Council Caravan Park along with temporary camping/caravan for season, itinerant & 27.2 Prepare planning guidelines for the short-term options in and around Grenfell provide short-term facilities. Medium term may be mining workforces accommodation of mining employees to support partly addressed in the existing tourist accommodation options. This requires further workforce needs during mining construction, review if intensive agriculture grows in the region. operation or shutdown. Direction 28: Manage 28.1 Locate new rural residential areas: This is not a large lot residential strategy as it is concerned with the urban lands of rural residential • close to existing urban settlements to maximise Grenfell and Council and DPE have adopted a separate strategy for this purpose. development the efficient use of existing infrastructure and However, this Strategy has potential to affect existing and proposed future large lot services, including roads, water, sewer and waste residential areas and growth depending on future growth of residential and industrial services, and social and community infrastructure; land use set out in this Strategy. • to avoid and minimise the potential for land use Also, large lot residential growth has the potential to meet some of the market conflicts with productive, zoned agricultural land demands for residential uses (though we have provided separate supply & demand and natural resources; and calculations for urban residential). • to avoid areas of high environmental, cultural or heritage significance, regionally important agricultural land or areas affected by natural hazards. 28.2 Enable new rural residential development only where it has been identified in a local housing strategy prepared by Council and approved by the Department of Planning and Environment. 28.3 Manage land use conflict that can result from cumulative impacts of successive development decisions. Direction 29: Deliver 29.1 Develop regional urban design guidelines for Whilst this land use strategy does not include an urban design component, this is being healthy built planning, designing and developing healthy built dealt with separately by Council. However, this Strategy does look at locating environments & better environments. appropriate development away from natural hazards and watercourses but in urban design 29.2 Enhance the quality of neighbourhoods by proximity to services and employment whilst protecting the character and heritage of integrating recreational walking and cycling Grenfell. networks. 29.3 Reflect local built form, heritage and character in new housing developments. 29.4 Incorporate water sensitive urban design in new developments.

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8.2.2 Economic Development Strategy for Regional NSW (Jan 2015) The NSW Government has prepared the Economic Development Strategy for Regional NSW (Jan 2015) that has five (5) main goals including: a) Goal 1: Promote key regional sectors and regional competitiveness b) Goal 2: Drive regional employment and regional business growth c) Goal 3: Invest in economic infrastructure and connectivity d) Goal 4: Maximise government efficiency and enhance regional governance e) Goal 5: Improve information sharing and build the evidence base This Strategy is consistent with those goals. This has been updated by the 20-Year Vision below. 8.2.3 20-Year Economic Vision for Regional NSW (July 2018) The NSW Government has released in 2018 the 20-Year Economic Vision for Regional NSW ('Economic Vision'). This document seeks to review the key trends affecting Regional NSW, industries driving the economic future of regional NSW, the vision for the future, and ways to deliver that vision. Whilst not all of the trends/finding are relevant to Weddin, it is clear that of the top 7 'engine industries' in Regional NSW - Agribusiness, Tourism, Education, Health & Social Care, Advanced Manufacturing, Renewable Energy & Technology-Enabled Primary Industries are all relevant to Weddin and particularly Grenfell.

Figure 47: Related NSW Government policies & strategies (Source: Figure.6 Economic Vision). Weddin & Grenfell are included in the South Western Slopes sub-region that is considered the 'Inland' area for growth prospects. The vision for this region is to create an additional 1,500-2,500 jobs from 2018-2038. In the Inland Area 19,000 new jobs would be created with most of these in agriculture & forestry, health-care and social assistance, and administrative and support services. In agribusiness – overall economic output has declined in recent years, suggesting further specialisation and productivity improvements are required to build on existing strengths. Underpinning this is the need for improvements in infrastructure, education, business research and advocacy, and a productive business environment (see Principles for future investment below). This includes better transport connections that promote movement of people and freight, affordable and fast internet, reliable access to water and energy, a skilled labour force, recognising each region's strengths and resources, and promoting commercial opportunities. These visions and principles are very much in line with the Central West & Orana Regional Plan 2036 discussed above. May 2019 - Version C Page | 66 DRAFT (for Public Exhibition)

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Figure 48: Principles for future investment (Source: Economic Vision p.22). 8.2.4 South West Slopes Regional Economic Development Strategy 2018-2022 ('REDS') The NSW Government & Centre for Economic & Regional Development ('CERD') have prepared the South West Slopes Regional Economic Development Strategy 2018-2022 ('REDS') that encompasses the LGAs of Bland, Cootamundra-Gundagai, Hilltops, Temora and Weddin Shire Councils. Some of the data is referenced in the economic data above. The REDS also sets out a number of strategies as follows: a) Support & grow the agriculture, food production and mining sectors; b) Improve utilities, energy & telecommunications to grow the Region's core industries, as well as business start- ups throughout the Region; c) Drive economic growth in the Region's core sectors by upskilling the workforce and facilitating innovation; d) Continue to develop and grow the visitor economy; e) Enhance the liveability and grow the population of the South West Slopes Region. These are generally consistent with or similar to the strategies in the Central West & Orana Regional Plan so they have not been addressed again here. 8.2.5 Central West & Agriculture Whilst this is an Urban Strategy, Grenfell is highly dependent on agriculture as its main employer and source of Gross Regional Product. Previously, RMCG / Department of Planning & Environment prepared the Central West & Orana Agricultural Industries (January 2016) (based on census data before the 2016 Census). This provides an excellent overview of the Central West & Orana region opportunities and constraints in agriculture but does not look in detail at Weddin Shire. We note that there are a number of other agricultural studies recently (or in the process of being) prepared including, but not limited to:

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 Central West Food & Fibre Strategy (CENTROC)  Agribusiness Diversification & Value-Added Manufacturing Options Paper (June 2018)  Regional Agricultural Development Strategy (Due Later 2019)

8.3 Weddin Shire Please see the Reference List at the end of this document for the full list of relevant studies. 8.3.1 Community Strategic Plan 2017-2026 Weddin 2026: Weddin Shire Council’s (WSC) 2017-2026 Community Strategic Plan ('CSP') sets out the Weddin Shire community’s aspirations and provides the blueprint for sustaining Weddin into the future. It builds on the work achieved through the 2013-2023 Community Strategic Plan (the base CSP) and informs the Delivery Program (4 years), Operational Plan (Annual), and Annual Report. It's primary goals (and resulting strategies) relate to a desire for a: 1. Strong, diverse and resilient local economy (collaborative wealth building) 2. Healthy, safe and educated community (innovation in service delivery) 3. Democratic & engaged community (supported by efficient internal systems) 4. Culturally rich, vibrant and inclusive community 5. Sustainable natural, agricultural and built environments 6. Shire assets & services delivered effectively & efficiently It sets out the Plan Priorities (see figures below) that highlight focus on the health centre (under construction), pool (completed), support aged care services (see Wellness Plan below), Main Street Upgrade (see recent Study), and other local and shire-wide projects that are consistent with this Strategy.

Figure 49: Community Plan Priorities (Source: CSP Graph Three).

Figure 50: New Council Projects 2017 (Source: CSP Table Four). May 2019 - Version C Page | 68 DRAFT (for Public Exhibition)

Part A - Local Profile - Grenfell (Land Use/Settlement) Strategy, Weddin Shire NSW 8.3.2 Weddin Wellness Plan 2018-2022 In light of the changing demographic and economic issues facing Grenfell and Weddin Shire, Council has had the foresight to prepare the Weddin Wellness Plan – Embracing Community Health 2018-2022 ('Wellness Plan') adopted at the November 2018 Council meeting. The Executive Summary states that the 'Weddin Wellness Plan responds to Council's concern for the health of the community and an increasing aging population, increasing numbers presenting with chronic disease, NSW's highest suicide rate, a significant number of people requiring assistance or with a disability.' The Wellness Plan highlights the range of existing services and has a number of key strategies relating to Health & Aged Care Services; Keeping People Health; Integrated & Co-ordinated Health Services; and Social & Emotional Wellbeing – most of which are about support and governance but some do have impacts on land use provision (particularly for health and support services). Some of the key census population, demographic and economic data is addressed above in the Local Profile Section including population, ageing, land values, and employment rates. Some additional, more specific data that is relevant to demand and supply of certain land uses (particularly relating to health and ageing) is set out below. Health Data from the 2014 Western NSW Local Health District – Grenfell Multipurpose Service, Service Statement indicated that '87 per 100 residents of the Weddin LGA have at least one chronic disease risk factor (smoking, harmful alcohol use, physical inactivity, obesity) compared to 78 per 100 in NSW' (p.11). Data from the 2017 Western NSW Primary Health Network - The Integrated Mental Health Atlas of Western NSW indicated that at the time Weddin had the highest suicide rate in the district (30.9 per 100,000 people) but oddly only a slightly above average level of Fair/Pool Health and Psychological Distress (16.2 ASR per 100 vs 14.3 for NSW) and lower Psychological Distress (8.9 ASR per 100)). [Note: Weddin no longer appears to have such a high suicide rate in more recent studies]. Aged Care The Grenfell MPS Service Statement also reviewed the aged care needs of the estimated future population based on Commonwealth benchmarks for places per population 70 years and older (not always accurate for smaller LGAs). This is addressed in more detail in the Community Section of this Strategy. Survey of Community Needs A Survey conducted in 2017 focussed on identifying a number of 'problem' areas and possible interventions. As shown in the Figure below, health care and community services ranked highest (with a priority for the Medical Hub / Health Centre) now the pool has been rebuilt followed by transformation of Main Street then sealed roads and sporting facilities. Aged care was seen as a significant issue and has ranked as important in the last 3 surveys and the community is keen to see an integrated response to ageing. There is a strong acceptance that digital service delivery is important to future needs of an ageing community (particularly in health care).

Figure 51: Top Needs as judged by Weddin Digital Panel (Source: Figure.11 Wellness Plan).

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Figure 52: Main Street, Grenfell options to drive Business Change (Source: Figure.15 Wellness Plan).

Figure 53: Weddin Tourism product development (Source: Figure.16 Wellness Plan).

Figure 54: Shortfalls in civic infrastructure (Source: Figure.18 Wellness Plan). Following adoption of the Wellness Plan, a business plan outline will be prepared to inform potential investors in health or aged care service providers of opportunities that exist in the Weddin Shire. Consideration will then also be given to the appointment of a partnership agent for an initial period of 12 months (part time) and the establishment of the Weddin Wellness Planning Network. This will create opportunities to address some of the key issues facing Grenfell and improve the provision of health, social care and aged-care housing.

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Part A - Local Profile - Grenfell (Land Use/Settlement) Strategy, Weddin Shire NSW 8.3.3 Economic Development Strategy 2017-2021 (2016) 1. Overview The Weddin Shire Council (2016) Economic Development Plan 2017-2021 ('LEDS') provides a set of actions to improve and sustain economic development in the Shire (with links to the region, nation and internationally). The following is only a brief summary of some key relevant points to this Settlement Strategy (please see the LEDS for more detail). 2. Key Issues The greatest risk to Weddin Shire is decline in population and reduction in services that damage the capacity of the community to be sustainable. A primary aim of the LEDS is to foster continued economic growth and support good community amenity to retain and attract people. Other key issues included the ageing population, rapid expansion of online (digital) businesses and competition, and consolidation of farms (bigger farms, fewer farmers). Some additional challenges include: a) Attracting skilled labour and trades b) Higher costs for business due to travel distances c) Poorer infrastructure for communication 3. Opportunities This Settlement Strategy has the potential to address some of the issues raised by and objectives in the LEDS. The following further issues have been identified by stakeholders and links are provided to where they are addressed in this Strategy. Many of these economic objectives have significant overlap with this (land use) Strategy.

Figure 55: Excerpt of Key Issues from Economic Development Plan 2017-2021 pp.3-4.

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Figure 56: Priorities for Economic Development (EDS p.7 / CSP). 4. Priorities LED/CSP The LEDS is framed around five (5) key cluster areas (see below) that result in key objectives and action plans for each area (most of the detailed actions are economic specific and the key role of a land use strategy is to facilitate those land uses in appropriate locations): Cluster Area Objective LEDS comment Settlement Strategy 1. Agriculture Weddin strives to Agriculture is the basis of the economy of This Strategy seeks to foster & maintain Weddin Shire. The sector is comprised of minimise impact on a strong & many family-owned farms and some valuable agricultural lands progressive corporate-owned enterprises specialising in and promote business/ agricultural sector grain and lamb production. The main crops industry lands to support are canola, wheat and lupins, and the region and leverage from also supports beef and lamb production. agriculture. There are a range of opportunities to develop this sector and associated industries. 2. Health & Encourage the The population of Weddin is ageing and this This Strategy encourages Aged Services provision of fact, combined with the importance of the provision of medical quality medical maintaining primary care services, puts services and aged care & facilities Health and Aged Care Services as a significant looks at areas these could element in attracting new residents and expand & integrate. maintaining the current community. 3. Community Maintain & The Weddin Shire community values the level This Strategy seeks to Amenity develop sporting, of amenity available to them in Grenfell and maintain & protect key recreational & surrounding areas. Amenity, like Health, is community assets. cultural facilities one of the pillars that supports a thriving & events rural district. 4. Tourism Maximise Weddin Whilst the Weddin Shire in general and This Strategy reviews Shire's tourism Grenfell in particular may never be opportunities for adaptive potential “Destinations”, it is clear from the re-use of business consultation that the community is very premises & dwellings for proud of the events and natural attributes tourist accommodation & that exist and have been developed. This supports main street sense of community pride can be harnessed upgrades (see Urban to further develop the tourism calendar and Design Strategies). build linkages with the region for better

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Cluster Area Objective LEDS comment Settlement Strategy cross-promotion. The recent work developing the Visitor Information Centre and the Grenfell Heritage-History-Henry “Have You Been?” website place Weddin in a good position to further develop the visitor offer. 5. Digital Provide The arrival of the NBN is much anticipated This Strategy does not Transformation infrastructure & and for the Weddin Shire population, with specifically look at tele- services to above average “connectedness”, it can’t communication support business come too soon. The opportunity exists to infrastructure but seeks activity network, share skills and information in an to facilitate businesses organised way over the next twelve months that can build on new to place as many people as possible in a infrastructure and make position of advantage. The Productivity Grenfell a hub for Commission report on Digital Disruption is communication and likely to lead to some business support engagement. programmes and it is recommended that WSC maintains a watching brief on possible funding sources. 8.3.4 Other Land Use Strategies Whilst the following land use strategies cover other areas and zones outside the Town of Grenfell, they are relevant in to the extent that this Strategy needs to integrate especially at the interfaces to the urban area: 1. Booth Associates (Oct 2012) Primary Production Strategy – Rural lands 2. Booth Associates (Oct 2012) Rural Settlement Project – Supply & Demand Analysis (Zone R5 & RU5 only) 3. Booth Associates (Oct 2012) Rural Settlement Project – Constraints & Opportunities (Zone R5 & RU5 only) 4. iPLAN PROJECTS (May 2016) Addendum to Rural Settlement Project relating to Zone R5 Large Lot Residential Lands around Grenfell; 5. iPLAN PROJECTS (Jan 2017) Draft Addendum to the Primary Production Strategy relating to Minimum Lot Size and Standard Instrument LEP Clauses (not endorsed by DPE). It is important to note that the Zone R5 Large Lot residential study in 2016 was isolated from other land uses and more about correcting discrepancies between the development potential of land and zoning / lot size boundaries. However, in this Strategy there may be some recommendations that further affect large lot residential areas and modify the relevant strategy.

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Part A - Local Profile - Grenfell (Land Use/Settlement) Strategy, Weddin Shire NSW 8.4 History of Recent Planning Controls The following is a brief summary of some of the more relevant recent planning controls that inform the current controls. 8.4.1 Weddin Interim Development Control Order Most rural shires first had Interim Development Control Orders ('IDOs'). These were rudimentary planning instruments with key controls that first introduced land use zoning and permissible land uses. As the maps below show, in the Town of Grenfell the Zone 2(t) Township area used to only be north of the rail line. As part of Amendment No.1 it was extended south around Henry Lawson Park, with some limited areas west, north and north- east.

Figure 57: Zone 2(t) Township/Village Maps - (Left) Interim Development Order 1 DCP Map; (Right) Amendment No.1 Draft Map that shows more recent changes to the urban area. 8.4.2 Weddin Local Environmental Plan 2002 The first comprehensive formal LEP was Weddin Local Environmental Plan 2002 ('WLEP2002'). This adopted the IDO zoning with the Town of Grenfell was predominantly in Zone No.2(t) Township (or Village) Zone. The objectives of this zone are: a) to identify land to be primarily used for urban development, including residential, commercial and industrial development, and b) to enable other forms of development that are compatible with adjoining land uses within the zone, and c) to enable other development which provides services to residents or has an association with, is compatible with, and is unlikely to adversely affect, residential amenity. It is important to note that the Township/Village Zone was a mixed-use zone that permitted a broad range of land uses (subject to merit assessment of compatibility).

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Figure 58: Excerpt from Zoning Map Weddin Local Environmental Plan 2002 (Source: IWCM 2009 CTW).

8.4.3 Weddin Local Environmental Plan 2011 & Land Use Strategies WLEP2011 is the current primary planning instrument for the Shire. WLEP2011 was prepared in accordance with the Standard Instrument LEP Template mandated by the NSW Government. As Council did not have significant resources for preparation of detailed land use strategies to guide changes to existing controls, WLEP2011 was mostly a 'translation' of earlier LEP zones and controls (see below). However, one significant change was the introduction of land-use specific zones ('complex zoning') in the Town of Grenfell to replace an overarching town or village zone (see below). That resulted in the introduction of specific zones for business ('B' zone), industrial ('IN' zone) and residential ('R' zone) uses. We are unaware (or have not been provided with a copy of) any previous detailed strategic review of land use for the Town of Grenfell and any relevant land use studies are likely to date back prior to 2002 (see below). The other land use strategies that have been adopted by Council apply outside of Grenfell and were not prepared until 2012 (Rural Settlement Strategy). Therefore, this Strategy is an opportunity to reconfirm the key controls in WLEP2011 and the supporting DCP (see below) and to document the reasoning to support any recommended changes in the next 5-10 years.

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Part A - Local Profile - Grenfell (Land Use/Settlement) Strategy, Weddin Shire NSW 8.4.4 Weddin Development Control Plan 2014 Weddin Development Control Plan 2014 ('DCP') was prepared by Council and adopted on 26 November 2014. The DCP supports WLEP2011 by providing more detailed planning controls to guide local development including, but not limited to:  Subdivision  Urban residential, multi dwelling housing, secondary dwellings and dual occupancy development  Large lot residential development & dwellings in primary production areas  Village development  Rural development  Commercial & industrial development  Constraints such as heritage, salinity, flooding Please note that this Strategy does NOT provide a detailed review of the planning controls in the DCP. The DCP should be briefly reviewed to ensure that it aligns with land use policy and the LEP and other instruments/state policies. Where possible Council 'policies' that have key planning controls should be integrated back into the DCP. 8.4.5 Contributions Plan(s) Whilst we are not providing updates to Council's Contributions Plan(s) it is worth noting what the current plans cover, the need for additional coverage, and potential ways forward to ensure that there can be appropriate investment in infrastructure and management of timing of delivery (e.g. Policy 7.2.4 – Grenfell Sewer Contributions Plan). 8.4.6 Partnerships Council has a number of partnerships to improve delivery of services and address sub-regional issues including:  Mid Lachlan Alliance (MLS) – Forbes, Parkes, Lachlan & Central NSW Joint Organisation noting the MLA Fitness campaign that seeks to improve efficiencies in delivering effective services in the area;  Central NSW Joint Organisation – Inaugural meeting 24 May 2018 (Executive Officer – Jenny Bennett) replaces CENTROC (new boundaries);  Relationship to Central West LGAs to the north (as part of the Central West & Orana Region) as well as southern LGAs including Hilltops (informal Central JO member) / Bland / Temora.  State Government Agencies (Education, Health, Recreation, Government, Tourism etc.)  Industry bodies and local and regional businesses.

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