Community invited to shape Uralla Shire's future growth
Published on 25 June 2026
Council is inviting community feedback on the draft Uralla Shire Growth Management Strategy 2026–2046, on public exhibition for 28 days from 26 June 2026.
The draft Strategy sets out a long-term plan to guide how Uralla Shire will grow and change over the next 20 years, ensuring development is carefully managed while protecting the Shire’s unique character, landscapes and community values.
Mayor Robert Bell said the document provides a clear and practical framework to manage population growth, housing demand and new economic opportunities, particularly those linked to the New England Renewable Energy Zone.
“This Strategy sets a clear path for how we will manage change over the next 20 years, ensuring we make the most of new opportunities while protecting what makes our Shire so special,” Mayor Bell said.
“Growth is coming to Uralla, driven by renewable energy investment, changing housing needs and increased interest in regional living. Done right, this presents a great opportunity, but it must be carefully planned.”
The draft Strategy identifies where future housing, jobs and infrastructure should be located, while ensuring new development is coordinated, sustainable and aligned with community expectations.
Mayor Bell said community input has already played an important role in shaping the document and encouraged residents, landowners and businesses to review the draft and provide feedback.
“Our community has told us clearly that Uralla’s identity matters - our heritage, rural landscapes and strong sense of community are at the heart of this Strategy.
“Now we’re asking people to take the time to read the draft and tell us what they think. Your feedback will help ensure we get this right for the future of our Shire.”
The Strategy also addresses key challenges including housing supply, infrastructure capacity, workforce accommodation, bushfire risk, and protection of productive agricultural land. It also provides clear direction for local enterprise while supporting liveable, connected communities.
“Importantly, this is about shaping and facilitating growth in a way that supports our community, strengthens our economy and protects our rural character,” Mayor Bell said.
Have your say
The draft Uralla Shire Growth Management Strategy 2026–2046 will be on public exhibition for 28 days from 26 June 2026.
Community members are encouraged to view the document and make a submission via Council’s Have Your Say website (yoursay.uralla.nsw.gov.au/growth-management-strategy) or in person at Council offices.
Submissions close at 5pm on Thursday 23 July.
Residents will have the opportunity to discuss the Strategy with Council planners at a series of drop-in sessions around the Shire:
- Invergowrie Store, Friday 3 July, 3pm-6pm
- High Country Markets, Sunday 5 July, 8am-12.30pm
- Uralla Courthouse, Friday 10 July, 10am-2pm
- Bundarra School of Arts Memorial Hall, Wednesday 15 July, 2pm-5pm
- Uralla Bowlo, Thursday 16 July, 3pm-7pm
- Kentucky Memorial Hall, Sunday 19 July, 12pm-4pm