Gilgandra is set to become a very different looking place with the Gilgandra Shire Council announcing a record capital works budget for the next financial year. 

The total capital works budget will hit a new high of $30,900,143 in the 2023-24 year. 

Mayor Doug Batten said “Council is excited to forecast a total capital works budget of $30,900,143, along with the $46,890,445 towards services for the community for 23/24." 

“The capital works program is aspirational, and is the highest on record for Gilgandra," Cr Batten.

"The budget includes infrastructure, activation and strategic projects that will have great community benefits, both now, and for future generations, promoting Gilgandra as a vibrant region with resilient and innovative infrastructures that capitalise on opportunities for economic growth.” 

Major Capital Works for 2023/24 include: 

• Inland Rail Housing Project $7M 

Constructing 14 new dwellings to service the housing needs of Inland Rail and essential health and education services 

• Development of Industrial Land Subdivision $5M 

Purchase and servicing of additional industrial land to meet current and future demands 

• National Park Road $4.9M 

Construct 12.5km of new bitumen seal to the unsealed sections of National Park Road 

• Development of Aeropark Residential subdivision $2.5M 

Providing 34 new residential housing lots to address the housing shortage in Gilgandra 

• Major IT upgrades $1.9M 

Modernising and rationalising Council IT capacity, network communications, business continuity, and increasing community resilience in the event of a major natural disaster 

• Design New Sewer Treatment Plant $1.1M 

Undertake detailed planning and design of a new sewerage treatment plant to meet the needs of our growing community, with construction expected to commence in 2024/25 at an estimated cost of $16M 

• Baronne Creek Crossing Upgrades $1M 

Replacing the Baronne Creek crossing on National Park Road 

It’s all part of the Council’s draft Delivery Program and Operational Plan, and Budget for the 2023/2024 financial year on public exhibition and is inviting residents to Have Your Say. 

The Budget reflects an overall forecast surplus of $616,423 after depreciation is deducted. The operational expenditure budget will see $46,890,445 spent on services for the community. The total forecast expenditure budget inclusive of capital works is $77,790,588. 

The council says its plan is to create ‘a vibrant region to live, enjoy and grow that is inclusive, resilient and progressive.’ 

“The budget shows the aspirations of Council towards the growth of Gilgandra Region towards a population of 5000, while ensuring our valuable services for the community continue. The critical infrastructure for growth supports this, and planning for challenges faced such as housing, health, road network, technology and community resilience” the council said in a statement.