Security and certainty for the Upper Hunter’s diverse range of industries is the cornerstone of a draft 20-year proposal released by the NSW Government for the community’s feedback.

Upper Hunter MP Dave Layzell said the Hunter Regional Plan 2041 would guide land use priorities and planning decisions in the region over the next two decades.

“The economic diversity of Upper Hunter has meant balancing land uses is always important and this strategy will give industries, from equine through to energy and resources, safety and confidence in their future operations,” he explained.

“Repurposing old mining and power sites will be a major drawcard for jobs and investments.

“So, we want to hear from the community on our strategies to explore these opportunities in Singleton and Muswellbrook.

“To support the Upper Hunter’s beef and dairy industries, the 2041 blueprint would implement long-term policies to capitalise on new opportunities in both domestic and Asian markets.”

NSW Minister for Planning and Public Spaces Rob Stokes said the Hunter Regional Plan was being renewed with a greater focus on supporting local economies and achieving a goal of net zero emissions.

“One of its most exciting goals is to create 15-minute communities, where people can access everything they need within a walk, bike ride or short drive,” he stated.

“The Hunter is climate resilient and energy efficient and the plan would establish net zero emissions as a guiding principle for all planning decisions to ensure future development supports the NSW Government’s emissions targets.”

The draft Hunter Regional Plan 2041 sets out strategies for how government and stakeholders could work together to achieve its seven key objectives which centre on jobs, housing, infrastructure and net zero emissions.

To view the draft plan and make a submission by Friday 4 March 2022, visit https://www.dpie.nsw.gov.au/hunter2041

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