Orange Mayor Cr Jason Hamling has welcomed the decision by the Western Regional Planning Panel to give planning approval for the proposed $25 million sports precinct alongside Sir Jack Brabham Park.
The project is funded by the NSW Government.
The WRPP announced their decision today after holding a hearing in Orange last week.
PRECINCT: An artist’s impression of the new precinct.
“This is a huge project with major benefits for the community of Orange and the wider region,” Cr Jason Hamling said. “This is great news for the Orange community and I’m delighted we’ve reached another milestone.”
“There are further planning approvals still to be assessed when it comes to the details of the stadium design and plans for the athletics track, but this is the important milestone. The panel has approved the overall concept of a sports precinct in a parklands setting.
“It’s important for the community to understand that the project has now been reviewed and approved by two external, independent bodies, Heritage NSW and the Planning Panel and I’m pleased we’re now able to get on with the work.
“The council hasn’t been sitting on its hands. Contracts for the first round of earth works have already been put out to tender, pending this approval. Its expected a Council meeting in March will be ready to award that contract, and work could begin soon after.
“The contract for the next round of tree removal has already been awarded pending today’s approval. Council will now formally ask the Heritage Council for their permission to continue with tree removal. It’s expected that could be under way in March.
“Local residents who’ve taken a close look at the plans are very excited. They know we’ll be planting more trees than we’re taking out. They’re looking forward to seeing a new sports precinct in a beautiful parkland setting.”
The WRRP’s approval, including its ‘Determination and Statement of Reasons’
