The most significant amendment to the Narrabri Local Environmental Plan (LEP) ever undertaken has been approved, involving the rezoning of the land for the Northern NSW Inland Port (N2IP).

The amendment has facilitated the change of the N2IP land use to part SP1 special activities, SP2 infrastructure, and E3 environmental management. The rezoning changes do not affect the current land use on surrounding properties.

Mayor Ron Campbell has congratulated staff on their extensive efforts in preparing the proposal, liaising with affected landholders and liaising with relevant government authorities in ensuring the proposal was executed in accordance with legislative requirements.

“Now the rezoning process is complete, this provides investors, developers and the community assurance that the Port is ‘all go’ and that developments can and will occur on the site.

“Narrabri Shire Council is taking the lead in capitalising on the opportunities our region has been presented with and the N2IP is a once in a lifetime development that will provide prosperity for generations to come.

“The amendment becoming a reality is exciting news in a time where the Shire is experiencing significant investment and economic growth.”

Council commenced the planning proposal process of amending the LEP in September 2020 with the forwarding of the proposal to the Department of Planning Industry and Environment (DPIE) to request a Gateway Determination. The Gateway Determination was issued in October 2020 and was followed by extensive community consultation regarding the changes, particularly with affected landholders.

General Manager, Mr Stewart Todd has steered the process in achieving the Narrabri Shire community desires to be the leading logistics hub in the northern inland region and said, “The N2IP rezoning is a major milestone in the development of the Port and comes at a time where the Shire is on the radar of investors, the government and industry.

“I could not be any prouder of our dedicated staff who have led the charge in making this amendment a reality; with their attention to detail and ongoing consultation with affected landholders, as well as the wider community, ensuring information was communicated at all key stages.

“The community deserve the economic prosperity that can be achieved with the opportunities available from Inland Rail connectivity, the emergence of new industries and the expansion of existing ones.

Mr Todd concluded, “Council are committed to playing their role in ensuring these opportunities are realised.”

Council will continue to keep the community up to date with the progress of this once in a lifetime project.

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