Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Growth Management Strategy?
The Growth Management Strategy (GMS) is a long-term plan that guides how Uralla Shire will grow and change over the next 20 years, to 2046.
Why does Uralla need this Strategy?
The Strategy helps Council plan for future housing, jobs and infrastructure, while protecting the Shire’s rural character, environment and community values.
What is driving growth in Uralla?
Growth is expected due to renewable energy development, changing housing needs and increasing interest in regional living.
How much will Uralla grow?
Population growth is expected to be modest, with demand for up to around 284 new homes by 2046.
Where will new housing be located?
Most new housing will be in the Uralla township, with some smaller-scale growth in villages and rural areas where appropriate.
Will this Strategy change the character of Uralla?
No - the Strategy aims to protect Uralla’s heritage, rural landscapes and small-town character while managing growth carefully.
How will the Strategy improve housing options?
It supports a greater variety of housing, including smaller homes, gentle-density housing, and options for different household needs.
What about infrastructure like water, sewer and roads?
The Strategy links growth to infrastructure planning so services can be upgraded and delivered in a coordinated way as the community grows.
How does the Strategy respond to renewable energy projects?
It plans for workforce accommodation, infrastructure demand and economic opportunities linked to the New England Renewable Energy Zone.
How will rural land and farming be protected?
The Strategy directs growth away from high-value agricultural land to avoid land use conflict and support farming.
Will smaller villages and rural areas grow too?
Yes, but growth will be modest and carefully managed to maintain their character and ensure infrastructure can support it.
Why does the Strategy propose increasing the minimum lot size from 2ha to 25ha in some rural areas?
The proposal to amend the minimum lot size of R5 - Large Lot Residential zoned land from 2ha to 25ha is to prevent further intensified development in the areas at highest risk of bushfire and where there are high-value ecological features requiring protection.