Saturday, April 26, 2025

NSW Govt maps out 20-year plan for Narrabri development boom

Narrabri’s housing and jobs future has been mapped out with a new 20-year plan, developed by the NSW Government in close collaboration with Narrabri Shire Council, set to guide future housing, job creation and a revitalisation of the historic town centre.

The Government says the Narrabri rezoning proposal will deliver at least 2,100 new well-located flood free homes with a mix of detached and medium-density housing, a vibrant new city-centre and new job opportunities.

Three unique precincts have been identified in the rezoning proposal focusing on land for housing, employment uses and industrial activities. This planning approach will balance the housing and industrial needs of the region while creating a framework to boost housing and economic growth.

“This is a milestone moment for Narrabri. As the second largest economy in the North West after Tamworth, we must continue to stay on the front foot—and this rezoning proposal does exactly that,” said Narrabri Shire Council Mayor, Darrell Tiemens.

“It sets a clear, collaborative vision for our Shire’s future, with well-located housing, job-generating precincts, and a revitalised town centre forming the building blocks for sustainable growth.

“I would like to sincerely thank the NSW Government, our local member Roy Butler, and our dedicated Council staff for their efforts in bringing this important plan to life.”

An indicative layout subdivision of the Residential Precinct and identified design principles. A neighbourhood centre is envisioned near the centre of the western portion of the Precinct. The area may also include a school to serve the surrounding area.

The newly established employment lands precinct, located between the Newell Highway and Inland Rail route, is set to generate hundreds of new jobs within the emerging light industries and commercial business sectors and provide a buffer between the residential area and the Inland Port Precinct where more intensive industries are proposed. This precinct will leverage the benefits of the future Inland Rail route and create additional jobs for the Narrabri region, said Minister for Planning and Public Spaces, Paul Scully.

“The Minns Government has worked closely with Narrabri Shire Council to develop this exciting plan for the future, guiding development in one of our state’s most historic town centres,” said Mr Scully.

“At least 2,100 new well-located homes will be delivered over the next 20 years to meet the housing needs of a growing regional population.

“The Narrabri rezoning proposal aims to stimulate development while creating a more liveable and connected community. This regional population growth will be balanced with new investment opportunities.”

Narrabri’s new rezoning proposal will help shape a thriving modernised town centre with a contemporary eat street concept to create new cafes and restaurants to add more vibrancy to the township. 

The rezoning proposal also proposes new health and aged-care facilities, along with childcare spaces and potential school sites near the village centre. The rezoning proposal will shape further public infrastructure upgrades with improved sport and recreation facilities and active transport networks also proposed.

Development Applications can now be lodged with Council for most new development within the three precincts which meets the requirements of the rezoning proposal and the Narrabri Local Environmental Plan 2012.

“More investment means more jobs for the next generation of Narrabri locals who will see their hometown transformed while retaining its much-loved charm and character,” said Minister for Regional NSW, Tara Moriarty.

“The Narrabri rezoning proposal is a great example of Council working hand in glove with the NSW Government to deliver great long-term planning outcomes for Narrabri and surrounding areas.”

For more information please visit the Narrabri Place Strategy web page.

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