Dubbo City Council is calling on residents to make submissions as it looks to form a policy on mining in the region, including the possible future extraction of coal seam gas (CSG).
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A draft strategy will be on display for the next month and council is encouraging everyone to provide their feedback.
Dubbo Field Naturalist & Conservation Society president, Tim Hosking said as the voice for environmental responsibility and conservation ethics in the Dubbo region, he was disappointed Dubbo Field Nats were not consulted.
“We welcome the strategic planning, but we would have preferred to have been consulted beforehand,” Mr Hosking said.
“Dubbo Field Nats look forward to making a submission and encourage others to do so.”
Chair of the planning and development committee, Councillor Lyn Griffiths, said Dubbo had been identified by the NSW Government as being at the centre of a significant level of future mining activity.
“The draft Strategy will allow Council to adequately plan for mining activity and ensure Dubbo makes the best use of the significant economic benefits, while ensuring mining activities do not impact on the quality of life of residents and the unique natural environment,” Clr Griffiths said.
The draft strategy is divided into seven individual themes with specific outcomes, addressing issues including agriculture and mining, housing the community, the natural environment, infrastructure, social health and well being, economic prosperity and Coal Seam Gas.
“In respect of (CSG), it is important to note that at this stage, no serious proposal to mine CSG in or near the Dubbo LGA has emerged, however, Council believes it is important to be prepared for any possible future application,” Clr Griffiths said.
