Media Release

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE 8 May 2025

Draft Shire Plan 2025–2026- Building Connected Communities - FOR FEEDBACK

The Draft Shire Plan reflects Council’s ongoing commitment to open, transparent and community driven priorities. Council has actively responded to the feedback received from its communities and stakeholder groups.

The Plan provides the details of priority projects across the region including the townships of Adelaide River and Batchelor and neighbouring rural communities. The recently adopted Asset Management Strategy and Plan has guided the development of a number of these projects, including resealing of the roads in the Batchelor township and ensuring an improved network for people of all abilities.

“The Plan proposes a 4% increase in rates and fees and charges in order to achieve a balanced budget” said Mark Blackburn, Official Manager.

“These increases are necessary to meet the increased cost in existing Contracts to maintain current service levels and a significant rise in the weekly kerbside waste management contract” he added.

Council must also build a reserve to meet the long- term costs associated with the rehabilitation of Council’s waste management facilities. The Draft Shire Plan also includes piloting solar street lighting to improve community safety and scoping works to continue improve industry roads in the rural communities.

“Your feedback is vital. I invite everyone to engage with the Draft Shire Plan and work with Council to shape the future of the Coomalie Region” said Mark Blackburn, Official Manager.

The Draft Shire Plan 2025–2026 is available for review on the Council’s website Submissions are open now-have your say and help guide our community’s direction for the year ahead.

WEBSITE:  www.coomalie.nt.gov.au/publications

ENDS

Comments can be made to Council in writing via email or post until 29 May 2025.  Email: mail.coomalie.nt.gov.au