Councils in the Namoi Valley will be better equipped to manage contaminated lands thanks to a $420,000 state government grant.
The money will be used to employ a dedicated and experienced contaminated lands officer to service Namoi Unlimited’s five member councils
Chairperson of Namoi Unlimited and Mayor of Gunnedah Shire Council Jamie Chaffey welcomed the investment and said, “this assistance will allow councils to establish consistent policy and procedures for contaminated lands.
“We can’t underestimate the value of this work in providing surety to both landholders, land users and developers.
The regionally based contaminated lands officer will work with councils to implement policy, address Underground Petroleum Storage Systems and implement a best practice guide for contaminated lands management. The position will also help councils develop and update Contaminated Lands Registers.
“This funding allows councils and staff to resource and deal with the issue of contaminated lands and UPSS, it’s complex but important work.
“Importantly this funding provides support to Councils to deliver on outcomes for the NSW Government without adding to the workload of existing staff,” explains Cr Chaffey.
“It will also involve conducting regular workshops and training with staff across the five councils. Building capacity and capability of our individual Councils and is one of the key outcomes of being part of a regional collaboration.”
Since its inception, Namoi Unlimited has commenced projects to address skill shortages within councils.
The Local Government sector is one of the largest employers in the Namoi region and as the region grows the impact of skills shortages are felt by business, community and Local Government.
Namoi Unlimited’s collaborative approach towards training provides cost-effective avenues for staff to upskill and ensures the entire region feels the benefits.