COUNCIL WELCOMES LEGISLATION TO ASSIST WORKERS ACCOMMODATION
NSW State Legislation allowing construction of temporary workers accommodation for renewable energy projects has been welcomed by Dubbo Regional Council (DRC).
The new legislation, which was brought in late last year, allows accommodation for those employed for a renewable energy project to be developed in a residential zone with development approval from Council.
The legislation applies to councils that are within Renewable Energy Zones (REZ) across the state, including DRC’s land within the Central West Orana REZ.
Dubbo Regional Council Mayor Josh Black said Council’s approach so far had been to look for opportunities on future residential zoned lands where it can deliver positive legacy in the form of infrastructure or other benefits, while also reaping the rewards of the economic development.
“There is an urgent need to provide housing for temporary workers involved in constructing large-scale projects within the Central West Orana REZ and Council has been working closely with relevant stakeholders to ensure that we can assist in facilitating the accommodation requirements needed,” Clr Black said.
“This is an important policy setting that has been under preparation by the State Government for a while and will assist in the planning flexibility our communities need to house those working on renewable energy projects in the region.
“It is a great example of the NSW Government working with local councils to get the regulations and planning systems right in order to benefit everyone involved,” Clr Black said.
Clr Black said Council was seeking to avoid on-site camps and to look for opportunities to provide accommodation either within or close to urban areas where positive and long-lasting legacy infrastructure can be provided for the community, and this new legislation would assist in making sure processes were easier for all stakeholders involved.
In Dubbo, Council is working with Squadron Energy who are looking at building temporary workers accommodation on vacant land at the Keswick Estate, which is currently in the process of design and further negotiations to ensure the legacy benefits are realised.
In Wellington, Council has been focusing on facilitating infill development opportunities, including assisting Squadron Energy to re-purpose the former Belhaven Nursing Home for workers accommodation.
Last Edited: 22 Jan 2025