Forbes Shire is forecast to grow by 32 per cent over the next two decades, that means an additional 3000 people will call Forbes home.
This is one of the highest growth areas in NSW and planning is well underway in Forbes to deal with this coming boom with its 2020-2040 Forbes local Strategic Planning Statement.
Council has this growth firmly in its sights along with the need for the provision of day-to-day services. It is exciting times ahead for Council with a number of innovative projects taking shape and offering so much to this beautiful region alongside the mammoth recovery process from last year’s floods.
To name a few fast taking shape;
* Goldridge Estate– 11 houses are already in the process of construction with many more in planning stages. Lots are available for purchase, and aim to reduce the high demand for limited availability in Forbes. The estate is being built to have as little impact on the environment as possible, for example the use of solar powered street lighting.
* Forbes Multipurpose Equestrian Centre – Construction has commenced and it is anticipated that this $3.6 million facility will service all levels of competition, and be used by at least 16 local user groups. This covered facility is expected to have great economic and social impacts on the town.
* Forbes Visitor Information Centre – the move from the Railway Station to the renovated former Lachlan Vintage Village has begun! With great respect to the bones of the historic old shearing shed, the centre promises so much for the traveller and local alike, including a nature-based playground for youngsters and a café/restaurant in the near future.
But did you also know that Forbes Shire Council manages:
* $498 million of community assets including some of our most iconic buildings and sports fields
* More unsealed roads than sealed! Our shire has 763 kilometres of sealed roads but 992km of unsealed. 24 kilometres of footpath
* The supply up to 15 megalitres of drinking water every day over summer – that’s 15 times the size of the town pool!
* In winter, Council supplies 3ML, or the equivalent of three town pools. 1.5ML of wastewater every day, or the same amount as 1.5 swimming pools.
* 3332 tonnes of rubbish including 1669 tonnes of landfill, 1220 tonnes of food and garden organics waste and 443 tonnes of yellow bin recyclables.
* Organisation and promotion of more than 170 events and bookings over the past 2 months; Some of these have been at our Town Hall and Youth Centre (pre-flood) including elections, disaster recovery assistance, eisteddfod, playgroups, festivals, toy library and so much more.