We’re reviewing the 2013 Precinct Structure Plan that guides development of Thurgoona Wirlinga to ensure the area is well-prepared for future growth.

Thurgoona Wirlinga was identified as a key growth area since the late 1970s. Its population has almost doubled in the last 10 years from 6,500 to 11,300 and is expected to increase to 50,000 people by 2070. This significant growth and change requires a robust Precinct Structure Plan with strategies that ensure new opportunities are leveraged and challenges overcome as the area continues to develop.

We’re into the next phase of the project and would like your feedback on the options we’re considering in updating the Precinct Structure Plan. We’ve listened carefully to your aspirations and concerns along with what you want to retain or see improved from the current 2013 Thurgoona Wirlinga Precinct Structure Plan. We've also considered the changes to planning policies and technical investigations (e.g. Biodiversity Assessment) which underpin the Structure Plan.

We’ve prepared a Discussion Paper which outlines a number of new strategies for how we want the Thurgoona Wirlinga area to develop. This includes matters that need to be considered in subdivision and development proposals, as well as planning our infrastructure needs.

Consultation on the Discussion Paper closed on Sunday 21 April 2024. This feedback will be used to shape an update of the Thurgoona Wirlinga Precinct Structure Plan.

The Biodiversity Assessment Methodology 2020 (BAM) is the legislated standard in New South Wales (NSW) to quantify biodiversity values on land for projects requiring assessment under the Biodiversity Offset Scheme (BOS). There are three stages. In general, Stage 1 focuses on the assessment of the landscape context, the integrity of native vegetation, and the habitat suitability for threatened species. The Stage 1 BAM is also a useful consideration in broad precinct level planning for areas such as the Thurgoona Wirlinga Precinct.

This is provided for background information.