FAQs Uralla Shire Council Strategic Water Security Planning
1. What is a Strategic Water Planning Study?
The Strategic Water Planning Study helps identify major risks facing the long-term management of the region’s water supply and wastewater systems and develop options to improve reliability and sustainability. A central component of the studies will be investigating water supply challenges including undertaking a water security assessment.
2. Who is overseeing the Strategic Water Planning Study?
At the Council meeting on 29 October, it was noted the appointment of NSW Public Works to manage the water strategy study items with the purpose of developing a 30-year water strategy for the region. NSW Public Works has a proven track record when it comes to strategic planning for several NSW local councils. Council also appointed a Project Manager to oversee the work, coordinate, plan and manage subconsultants, and facilitate the investigation of both short- and long-term risks and actions to reduce the risk of future arsenic contamination of the water supply.
3. Will the community be informed about the Water Security Planning study?
Yes. An important part of the study is to include input and feedback from the community and stakeholders into planning decisions for the water and wastewater services of the towns of Uralla and Bundarra. A robust consultation program is to be undertaken in 2025.
4. Who is managing the community engagement and consultation program?
Council engaged an independent Specialist Consultancy, Becscomm Pty Ltd, to assist Council with rolling out a community and stakeholder engagement and consultation program. The program follows up the ZNET consultation program completed in 2019/2020.
Becscomm is experienced in delivering large engagement programs for local and state government projects across NSW and ACT.
5. How can I get involved?
The community can be involved throughout the consultation and engagement program commencing in September 2025.
Consultation and engagement activities will include an online survey, focus groups with key stakeholders and community groups, and one on one interviews, community POP-UP information sessions to capture feedback.
Feedback from these activities will inform Council’s decision making for future planning for water and wastewater services.
To stay informed Please subscribe on the link provided.
Who pays for the Strategic Water Security Planning Study?
Uralla Shire Council is pleased to announce that it has received a grant of up to $855,315 from the NSW Department of Climate Change, Energy, the Environment and Water under the Safe and Secure Water Program to develop a comprehensive 30-year water strategy for our community.