The future is looking bright for the Armidale Region, with residents now able to explore the Armidale Regional Council's Draft Brilliant Region Strategy 2024, currently available online for public exhibition.
This comprehensive plan outlines the vision and initiatives set to shape the region's development and prosperity in the coming years.
The draft report says the Armidale Region has enormous opportunities to shape a better future, thanks to its status as a major Renewable Energy Zone. (REZ)
The New England REZ is currently the largest in Australia and is the backbone to Australia’s low carbon future, according to the report.
ARC has also shown a strong commitment to sustainable controlled environment horticulture with the largest and most significant precinct in Australia claiming horticulture precincts in Armidale and Guyra will be serving the dining tables of Australia and abroad in the future because of its ideal climate, excellent year-round solar exposure, and water security.
The Council’s Local Strategic Planning Statement (LSPS) sets out a vision for the region to be “Brilliant”, emphasising that leveraging digital technology is a contemporary way of effectively addressing future challenges and opportunities.
In January 2022, the newly elected ARC resolved to set an aspirational target to grow jobs in the region by 4,000 by 2040 (increasing our regional population by 10,000) and to identify the region building infrastructure and catalyst job growth projects that will maximise the region’s potential.
This clear direction from Council has culminated in the preparation of the Local Strategy Planning Statement (LSPS) Advancing our region: Toward 50,000. As the region grows to a population of 40,000 over the next 20 years and beyond, the Armidale region will be connected to the world through 4,000 new jobs of the future and a strong sense of community and social responsibility, according to the report.
Creating a connected and brilliant community will foster:
- Efficient service delivery
- Effective programs
- Better facilities and amenities
- Engaging and vibrant spaces
- A thriving economy and activation
- Enhanced wellbeing, safety, and security
- Sustainable natural assets
- Innovation and collaboration
- Insightful policy
- Intelligent investment
- Future-proof skills
At the Ordinary Council meeting held on Wednesday 22 May 2024 Council endorsed the Draft Brilliant Region Strategy for Public Exhibition from Friday 24 May to 5pm Monday 24 June.
"The Armidale Region is well on its way to becoming a truly 'brilliant' region," said the Mayor Sam Coupland.
"We've successfully introduced a range of innovative projects that are already making a difference. From the implementation of smart water meter trial and a successful scooter trial to the deployment of smart bins and additional air quality monitors, we're embracing the digital space and enhancing the quality of life for our residents.
“These initiatives are just the beginning of our journey towards a smarter, more sustainable future.”
"We are excited to share the Draft Brilliant Region Strategy 2024 with our community," the Mayor added.
"We value the input of our residents and encourage everyone to review the strategy and provide their feedback. This is a collaborative effort, and your insights are crucial in shaping the future of our region."
The Armidale Regional Active Transport Strategy (ATS), which has been prepared for the Armidale Regional Council (ARC) to provide a framework for existing active transport needs, future management, use and enhancement for walking and cycling of all ages and mobility, is also currently on display on Council’s Have Your Say Armidale page.
Active transport, primarily in the form of walking and cycling are a sustainable and simple means of access to places, goods, services, experiences, and information. In the planning of public and private spaces or facilities, priority should be given to active transport modes which are attractive, safe, convenient and accessible for everyone.
All strategies can be viewed at Your Say Armidale, and all feedback is invited during the public exhibition period.
Published on 03 Jun 2024