Community consultation now open for heritage-style installation

Balranald Shire Council is seeking community input on a unique proposal that could see a traditional windmill installed in the heart of the township.

The application, submitted by the former Balranald Beautification Advisory Committee, represents a significant addition to the town's heritage character and visitor appeal.

The proposed windmill would be constructed on Lot 2 DP 700753, located at 83 Market Street, Balranald—a prominent position within the town centre that would make the structure a notable landmark for both residents and visitors travelling through the region.

The former Balranald Beautification Advisory Committee, which has previously championed various community enhancement projects throughout the shire, has put forward this proposal as part of ongoing efforts to preserve and celebrate the area's agricultural heritage whilst creating an attractive focal point for the township.

In accordance with Council's Community Participation Plan, all residents are invited to examine the proposal and provide feedback on the development.

This consultation process ensures that community voices are heard and considered before any decision is made regarding the windmill installation.

Council encourages residents to carefully consider both the potential benefits and any concerns they may have about the proposed development. Factors residents might wish to consider include:

• The visual impact on the surrounding neighbourhood
• Potential benefits for tourism and local heritage preservation
• Any noise or maintenance considerations
• The enhancement of Market Street's character
• Compatibility with existing development in the area

How to Provide Feedback

Residents wishing to raise concerns, ask questions, or provide input on the windmill proposal have several options:

Email enquiries: [email protected]

Formal objections: Must be submitted in writing and addressed to: The General Manager Balranald Shire Council

All correspondence should clearly reference the windmill proposal at 83 Market Street, Balranald, and include the writer's name and contact details.

Windmills have played a significant role in Australia's rural development, particularly in water pumping and grain processing throughout the 19th and early 20th centuries.

The installation of a heritage-style windmill in Balranald would pay tribute to this important aspect of the region's agricultural history whilst creating a distinctive landmark that reflects the area's rural character.

The Balranald district, situated in the Riverina region of New South Wales, has strong ties to pastoral and agricultural industries, making a windmill installation particularly appropriate for celebrating this heritage.

Following the community consultation period, Council will review all submissions and feedback received from residents. This input will form part of the assessment process for the development application, ensuring that community concerns and suggestions are properly considered.

Council will provide updates on the progress of the application assessment through regular communication channels, including the Council website and community notices.

The timeframe for the consultation process and subsequent decision-making will be communicated to residents as the process progresses.

Residents seeking additional details about the windmill proposal, the assessment process, or wishing to discuss any aspects of the development are encouraged to contact Council directly.

For all enquiries regarding this proposal: Email: [email protected] Phone: 03 5020 1300

Council appreciates the community's engagement in this consultation process and looks forward to receiving residents' thoughtful input on this unique proposal for the Balranald township.

This notice forms part of Council's commitment to transparent community consultation in accordance with the Community Participation Plan. All feedback received will be considered as part of the development assessment process.