Uralla Shire Council seeks extension for New England REZ project review

Uralla Shire Council has formally requested that the New South Wales Government extend the public exhibition period for the Environmental Impact Statement (EIS) regarding the proposed New England Renewable Energy Zone (REZ) Transmission Project.

Mayor Robert Bell argued that the standard 28-day consultation period is insufficient to review the vast amount of technical information contained in the EIS, which covers biodiversity, agriculture, heritage, traffic, and economic impacts. The Council has written to Planning Minister Paul Scully requesting an extension of at least four weeks, with a preference for the period to run until December 31.

Local leaders and community groups, including the Walcha High Country Guardians and Voice for Walcha, have also expressed concerns that the current timeframe is inadequate for landholders and businesses to seek independent advice and prepare informed submissions for such a significant regional infrastructure project.