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TAMWORTH REGIONAL
COUNCIL
Notice is hereby given, in accordance with the provisions of the Local Government Act
1993, that a Meeting of Tamworth Regional Council will be held in the Council
Chambers, 4th Floor Ray Walsh House, 437 Peel Street, Tamworth, commencing
at 6:30pm.
ORDINARY COUNCIL AGENDA
18 DECEMBER 2018
PAUL BENNETT
GENERAL MANAGER
Tamworth Regional Council – Ordinary Council – 18 December 2018
Order of Business
ITEM SUBJECT PAGE NO
1 APOLOGIES AND LEAVE OF ABSENCE ................................................................... 6
2 COMMUNITY CONSULTATION................................................................................... 6
3 MINUTES OF PREVIOUS MEETING SUBMITTED FOR APPROVAL ......................... 6
4 DISCLOSURE OF INTEREST ...................................................................................... 6
5 MAYORAL MINUTE ..................................................................................................... 6
6 NOTICE OF MOTION ................................................................................................... 6
OPEN COUNCIL REPORTS 6
7 INFRASTRUCTURE AND SERVICES ......................................................................... 6
7.1 TAMWORTH REGIONAL AQUATIC AND LEISURE CENTRE DRAFT BUSINESS CASE ....... 6
2 ANNEXURES ATTACHED
7.2 CONNORS CREEK BRIDGE, BARRABA - PROPOSED BRIDGE REPLACEMENT ............. 14
7.3 PROPOSED FREEDOM CAMPING SITE IN MANILLA................................................... 17
1 ANNEXURES ATTACHED
7.4 FUNDING FOR AND THE INSTALLATION OF BULK W ATER REFILL STATIONS ............... 20
2 ANNEXURES ATTACHED
7.5 REQUEST FOR THE ACCEPTANCE OF MIXED W ASTE ORGANIC MATERIAL FROM
BIOMASS SOLUTIONS COFFS HARBOUR ................................................................ 25
1 ANNEXURES ATTACHED
7.6 REMEDIATION AND LEASE OF 225 FOREST ROAD .................................................. 28
7.7 AELEC SOLAR PHOTOVOLTAIC INSTALLATION ...................................................... 32
1 ANNEXURES ATTACHED
7.8 DEVELOPER CHARGES UNDER SECTION 138 OF THE ROADS ACT 1993 .................. 35
8 ENVIRONMENT AND PLANNING ............................................................................. 37
8.1 REQUEST FROM HABITAT FOR HUMANITY TO INCLUDE AN ADDITIONAL LOT IN THE
GROUP OF PROPERTIES IDENTIFIED FOR A MORATORIUM TO W AIVE COUNCIL RATES
AND REFUND DEVELOPMENT FEES AND CHARGES ................................................. 37
8.2 AMENDMENT TO THE TAMWORTH REGIONAL LOCAL ENVIRONMENTAL PLAN 2010 -
PLANNING PROPOSAL TO REMOVE CARAVAN PARKS FROM THE RE2 PRIVATE
RECREATION ZONE .............................................................................................. 39
4 ANNEXURES ATTACHED
8.3 HERITAGE W ORKING GROUP MEETING NO.S 11 AND 12 - 14 SEPTEMBER 2018 AND
16 NOVEMBER 2018 ............................................................................................ 42
2 ENCLOSURES ENCLOSED
9 GOVERNANCE, STRATEGY AND FINANCE ............................................................ 44
9.1 REVIEW OF TAMWORTH REGIONAL TIDY TOWNS S355 COMMITTEE ........................ 44
Page i
Tamworth Regional Council – Ordinary Council – 18 December 2018
9.2 SECTION 355 COMMITTEE MINUTES AND PLACE MANAGEMENT ACTIVITIES ............. 45
1 ANNEXURES ATTACHED
9.3 COUNCIL INVESTMENTS NOVEMBER 2018 ............................................................. 49
1 ANNEXURES ATTACHED
9.4 ANNUAL OPERATIONAL PLAN 2018/19 BUDGET VARIATION REPORT - NOVEMBER
2018 .................................................................................................................. 52
1 ANNEXURES ATTACHED
9.5 CHANGES TO FINANCIAL RESERVE BALANCES ....................................................... 53
1 ANNEXURES ATTACHED
10 COMMUNITY SERVICES ........................................................................................... 56
10.1 CENTRAL NORTHERN REGIONAL LIBRARY ............................................................. 56
2 ANNEXURES ATTACHED
10.2 DRAFT TAMWORTH REGIONAL COUNCIL INNOVATE RECONCILIATION ACTION PLAN -
DECEMBER 2018 TO DECEMBER 2020 .................................................................. 58
1 ANNEXURES ATTACHED
11 REPORTS FROM DELEGATES ................................................................................ 59
11.1 LGNSW GOOD GOVERNANCE FORUM 2018 ......................................................... 59
12 QUESTIONS ON NOTICE .......................................................................................... 61
13 REPORTS TO BE CONSIDERED IN CLOSED COUNCIL ......................................... 61
13.1 DRY HIRED PLANT ............................................................................................... 61
13.2 WET HIRED PLANT............................................................................................... 61
13.3 SUPPLY AND DELIVERY OF INDUSTRIAL HARDWARE ............................................... 62
13.4 POSSIBLE ACQUISITION OF A PORTION OF PROPERTY FOR ROAD W IDENING - BYLONG
ROAD ................................................................................................................. 62
13.5 PROPOSED ACQUISITION AND DISPOSAL OF LAND ................................................. 63
13.6 PROPOSED CULTURAL GIFT AND LEASE ................................................................ 63
13.7 MATTERS REGARDING TAMWORTH RUGBY UNION SPORTING CLUB INCORPORATED 63
13.8 PROPOSAL REGARDING DISPOSAL OF COUNCIL LAND ............................................ 64
13.9 T055/2019 - BULK SUPPLY AND DELIVERY OF CHEMICALS TO TAMWORTH REGIONAL
COUNCIL'S W ATER AND WASTEWATER SITES ........................................................ 64
13.10 PROPOSED INSTALLATION OF NRMA ELECTRICAL VEHICLE CHARGING STATION IN
THE HANDS OF FAME CARPARK ............................................................................ 64
13.11 CONSTRUCTION OF JACK SMYTH DRIVE UPGRADE ................................................ 65
Page ii
Tamworth Regional Council – Ordinary Council – 18 December 2018
Council
nd th
Meeting Date: 2 and 4 Tuesday of the month commencing at 6:30pm.
Matters determined by Ordinary meetings will include all those non-delegable functions identified in Section 377 of the Local
Government Act as follows:
“the appointment of a general manager
the making of a rate
a determination under section 549 as to the levying of a rate
the making of a charge
the fixing of a fee
the borrowing of money
the voting of money for expenditure on its works, services or operations
the compulsory acquisition, purchase, sale, exchange or surrender of any land or other property (but not
including the sale of items of plant or equipment)
the acceptance of tenders which are required under this Act to be invited by the council
the adoption of an operational plan under section 405
the adoption of a financial statement included in an annual financial report
a decision to classify or reclassify public land under Division 1 of Part 2 of Chapter 6
the fixing of an amount or rate for the carrying out by the council of work on private land
the decision to carry out work on private land for an amount that is less than the amount or rate fixed by the
council for the carrying out of any such work
the review of a determination made by the council, and not by a delegate of the council, of an application for
approval or an application that may be reviewed under section 82A of the Environmental Planning and
Assessment Act 1979
the power of the council to authorise the use of reasonable force for the purpose of gaining entry to premises
under section 194
a decision under section 356 to contribute money or otherwise grant financial assistance to persons
the making of an application, or the giving of a notice, to the Governor or Minister
this power of delegation
any function under this or any other Act that is expressly required to be exercised by resolution of the council.”
Other matters and functions determined by Ordinary Council Meetings will include:
Notices of Motion
Notices of Motion of Rescission
Council Elections, Polls, Constitutional Referendums and Public Hearings/Inquiries
Ministerial Committees and Inquiries
Mayor and Councillors Annual Fees
Payment of Expenses and Provision of Facilities to Mayor and Councillors
Local Government Remuneration Tribunal
Local Government Boundaries
NSW Ombudsman
Administrative Decisions Tribunal
Delegation of Functions by the Minister
Delegation of Functions to General Manager and Principal Committees
Organisation Structure
Code of Conduct
Code of Meeting Practice
Honesty and Disclosure of Interests
Access to Information
Protection of Privacy
Enforcement Functions (statutory breaches/prosecutions/recovery of rates)
Dispute Resolution
Council Land and Property Development
Annual Financial Reports, Auditors Reports, Annual Reports and Statement of the Environment Reports
Performance of the General Manager
Equal Employment Opportunity
Powers of Entry
Liability and Insurance
Membership of Organisations
Membership: All Councillors
Quorum: Five members
Chairperson: The Mayor
Deputy Chairperson: The Deputy Mayor
Page 4
Tamworth Regional Council – Ordinary Council – 18 December 2018
Community Consultation Policy
The first 30 minutes of Open Council Meetings is available for members of the Public to address the
Council Meeting or submit questions either verbally or in writing, on matters INCLUDED in the Business
Paper for the Meeting.
Members of the public will be permitted a maximum of three minutes to address the Council Meeting.
An extension of time may be granted if deemed necessary.
Members of the public seeking to represent or speak on behalf of a third party must satisfy the Council
or Committee Meeting that he or she has the authority to represent or speak on behalf of the third party.
Members of the public wishing to address Council Meetings are requested to contact Council either by
telephone, in person or online prior to 4:30pm the day of the Meeting to address the Council Meeting.
Persons not registered to speak will not be able to address Council at the Meeting.
Council will only permit three speakers in support and three speakers in opposition to a recommendation
contained in the Business Paper. If there are more than three speakers, Council’s Governance division
will contact all registered speakers to determine who will address Council. In relation to a Development
Application, the applicant will be reserved a position to speak.
Members of the public will not be permitted to raise matters or provide information which involves:
personnel matters concerning particular individuals (other than Councillors);
personal hardship of any resident or ratepayer;
information that would, if disclosed confer a commercial advantage on a person with whom
Council is conducting (or proposes to conduct) business;
Commercial information of a confidential nature that would, if disclosed:
- prejudice the commercial position of the person who supplied it, or
- confer a commercial advantage on a competitor of the Council; or
- reveal a trade secret;
information that would, if disclosed prejudice the maintenance of law;
matters affecting the security of the Council, Councillors, Council staff or Council property;
advice concerning litigation or advice that would otherwise be privileged form production in legal
proceedings on the ground of legal professional privilege;
information concerning the nature and location of a place or an item of Aboriginal significance on
community land;
alleged contraventions of any Code of Conduct requirements applicable under Section440; or
on balance, be contrary to the public interest.
Members of the public will not be permitted to use Community Consultation to abuse, vilify, insult,
threaten, intimidate or harass Councillors, Council staff or other members of the public. Conduct of this
nature will be deemed to be an act of disorder and the person engaging in such behaviour will be ruled
out of the order and may be expelled.
Disclosure of Political Donations or Gifts
If you have made a relevant planning application to Council which is listed for determination on the
Council Business Paper you must disclose any political donation or gift made to any councillor or
employee of the Council within the period commencing two years before the application is made and
ending when the application is determined (Section 147(4) Environmental Planning and Assessment Act
1979).
If you have made a relevant public submission to Council in relation to a relevant planning application
which is listed for determination on the Council Business Paper you must disclose any political donation
or gifts made to any councillor or employee of the Council by you as the person making the submission
or any associate within the period commencing two years before the submission is made and ending
when the application is determined (Section 147(5) Environmental Planning and Assessment Act 1979).
Page 5
Tamworth Regional Council – Ordinary Council – 18 December 2018
AGENDA
1 APOLOGIES AND LEAVE OF ABSENCE
2 COMMUNITY CONSULTATION
3 MINUTES OF PREVIOUS MEETING SUBMITTED FOR
APPROVAL
RECOMMENDATION
That the Minutes of the Ordinary Meeting held on Tuesday, 27 November 2018, copies
of which were circulated be taken as read and confirmed as a correct record of the
proceedings of the Meeting.
4 DISCLOSURE OF INTEREST
Pecuniary Interest
Non Pecuniary Conflict of Interest
Political Donations
5 MAYORAL MINUTE
Nil
6 NOTICE OF MOTION
Nil
OPEN COUNCIL REPORTS
7 INFRASTRUCTURE AND SERVICES
7.1 TAMWORTH REGIONAL AQUATIC AND LEISURE CENTRE DRAFT BUSINESS CASE –
FILE NO PROJ2019-0111
DIRECTORATE: REGIONAL SERVICES
AUTHOR: Paul Kelly, Manager Sports and Recreation
Reference: Item 12.1 to ordinary Council 23 May 2017 – Minute No 142/17
2 ANNEXURES ATTACHED
RECOMMENDATION
That in relation to the report “Tamworth Regional Aquatic and Leisure Centre Draft
Business Case”, Council:
(i) endorse the draft Business Case;
(ii) commit to the forward planning for a Regional Aquatic and Leisure Facility as
per the concept design of the high embellishment model detailed in the draft
Business Case;
Page 6
Tamworth Regional Council – Ordinary Council – 18 December 2018
(iii) commit to the location of a new facility to be built as a further stage of the
Northern Inland Centre of Sporting Excellence;
(iv) commit to the development of a funding prospectus in preparation for external
funding applications; and
(v) conduct a Councillor workshop in early 2019 to consider funding strategies and
finalisation of the Business Case.
SUMMARY
The purpose of this report is to present to Council a draft Business Case on a proposed
Tamworth Regional Aquatic and Leisure Centre.
In early 2017, a community group was established, known as the “Tamworth Aquatic Group”
(TAG), who represented a united front for three locally based swim clubs and water polo.
This group lobbied Council to consider the development of a new regional aquatic facility for
Tamworth.
In May 2017, Council committed to the development of a business case for a new Aquatic
and Leisure facility as an additional stage to the Northern Inland Centre of Sporting
Excellence.
Following research and detailed community consultation in Summer 2017-2018 the
community identified that they were very supportive of a new facility with almost 93% stating
that it was an important issue. Through research and community consultation it was identified
that a modern facility should include:
indoor and outdoor pools;
kids splash area;
gym facilities;
café and crèche;
outdoor grassed area; and
waterslides.
In response to this consultation, Council then engaged OTIUM Planning Group as external
consultants who specialise in the design and planning of modern sporting and aquatic
facilities. OTIUM were tasked with developing conceptual floor plans and preliminary
costings for a modern aquatic and leisure centre that proposed three different options
including:
Option 1 - High Level Embellishment Model
(50 metre indoor and 50 metre outdoor pool plus adventure slides);
Option 2 - Medium Level Embellishment Model
(25 metre indoor pool and 50 metre outdoor pool with adventure slides); and
Option 3 - Low Level Embellishment
(50 metre indoor pool only).
Industry research clearly shows that any successful modern aquatic and leisure facility must
create a social hub for the community with multiple leisure options to maximise the
community participation and commercial viability of the facility. Given this, each of the three
proposed concept plans that were developed all required critical facilities such as reception
Page 7Tamworth Regional Council – Ordinary Council – 18 December 2018
area, café, crèche, gymnasium, retail space, health and wellness area, warm water pool and
kids splash play area.
These critical components and three pool concept options were presented to the community
in November 2018, and the community response confirmed that they are strongly supportive
of a new aquatic and leisure facility for Tamworth (80% of respondents in favour of an Indoor
Aquatic and Leisure Centre). In regards to which concept option the community would prefer
there is clear support for Option 1 – High Embellishment Model 50 metre indoor and 50
metre outdoor pool, with adventure slides. From the star rating option for respondents, 81%
who preferred the High Embellishment Option, gave a full 5-star rating to this design.
A draft Business Case has subsequently been prepared by OTIUM Planning Group, which
documents the proposed project, the consultation outcomes and trends, business and
financial modelling; and cost benefit analysis for the community’s preferred option and some
potential funding strategies. This draft business case is ATTACHED, refer ANNEXURE 1.
Key extracts from the draft Business Case are that:
there is overwhelming community support for a new leisure and aquatic centre to be
constructed in Tamworth;
80% of the community response was supportive of the sale of the two existing pool assets,
providing a new facility is constructed;
strong preference for a new facility to incorporate a 50 metre outdoor and 50 metre indoor pool
with adventure slides and all critical components of a modern successful aquatic and leisure
facility;
main objections to the selling of existing pools and the development of a new facility are centred
around the location of the proposed new facility, sense of place and nostalgia associated with
our existing pools, and easy access to a facility being located in CBD;
indicative capital costs for a facility will exceed $60 million;
the project will require both a significant financial investment from Council as well as substantial
external funding for the project to be realised;
business modelling of the community’s preferred concept plan demonstrates that entry fees
would be comparable with similar other regional aquatic facilities throughout NSW; and
recommendation that Council commence the development of an integrated external funding
proposal, which details Council’s possible financial commitment. Strategies to consider may
include asset sales, external loan, special rate variation and possibly accessing asset renewal
reserves.
COMMENTARY
The Project
The Tamworth community and Council have been debating the development of a new
aquatic facility for more than 20 years. It is widely recognised that the city’s existing pool
complexes are reaching an age where maintenance and renewal costs are rising annually
and a major investment will soon be required to enable these facilities to continue to safely
operate and comply with standards.
Ground swell for a new aquatic centre began in mid 2016, when Council sought community
feedback on their priorities for the revitalisation of Keychange 2017-2027 – Tamworth
Community Strategic Plan. In early 2017, the swimming community united to form the
Tamworth Aquatic Group (TAG). They undertook a high profile campaign which led to a
Page 8Tamworth Regional Council – Ordinary Council – 18 December 2018
Council decision in May 2017, to commit to the development of a business case for a
proposed new facility.
As part of Council’s commitment to a business case, Council determined that a new aquatic
and leisure facility would be best located at the Northern Inland Centre of Sporting
Excellence. A regionally significant aquatic facility would integrate well with the ever growing
Centre of Sporting Excellence, which is already widely used by the community and also a
significant visitor area for tourists to the region. Efficiencies for building design and operation
were also considered at this location, as well as the potential for increased interest from
government in relation to funding a centralised sporting and leisure precinct.
Another of Council’s commitments was that if a new facility was to be built that Council would
sell the existing pool complexes with funds being allocated towards a new facility.
The first stage of the business case development was to research what makes a successful
modern aquatic and leisure facility to ensure that any new facility for the community would be
as cost effective as possible. It became clearly evident that any modern facility would need to
be more than just a pool and that it would need to be a community and social hub offering a
range of activities including retail, food and beverage, gymnasium, health and wellness
services, kids water play facilities as well as flexible bodies of water to cater for a range of
activities and to attract new users and high profile competition and events.
It was also important to consider Tamworth’s position within the region and the likely
population in the years to come as any new facility would also need to consider future
generations.
Initial Community Consultation
Council undertook an extensive three month community consultation program during the
summer of 2017-2018 to seek the community’s input into what they would like to see in a
new aquatic facility. A quantitative survey was created and heavily promoted through radio,
newspaper, pop up shops in shopping centres, pools and a significant social media push.
Council also used key stakeholders within the fields of aquatics sports, allied health and
schools to advocate for and promote the survey.
A total of 1,289 responses were received with 83% of these respondents coming from within
a 10 kilometre radius of the CBD. 93% rated the need for a new aquatic facility as either
very important or somewhat important, clearly demonstrating the desire for a new facility.
The community were strongly supportive of both indoor and outdoor facilities (90%) and
rated café, kid’s splash park, waterslides and outdoor grassed area as the highest priorities.
This consultation also sought to understand what obstacles the community believed could be
associated with a new facility and the three consistent responses were distance/location,
access/transport and cost of entry. This is included in the ATTACHMENT, refer ANNEXURE
2.
Concept Plans
Following this initial round of community consultation, Council engaged an external
contractor “OTIUM Planning Group” who have significant experience in the development of
aquatics and sporting facilities throughout Australia, to develop three concept plans based on
the community response from the initial consultation.
In developing these concepts plans, the Project Team and the consultants agreed that in
each of the plans there would be a consistent provision of critical facilities that were essential
in any new facility.
Page 9Tamworth Regional Council – Ordinary Council – 18 December 2018
These components consisted of:
Central Foyer Kids wet play area Wellness rooms
Reception Learn to swim/program Party/event hire room
pool
Café and seated areas Beach entry and toddler Events management
poos room
Child crèche Pool control/lifeguard Lift and stairs to 1st floor
room
Administration offices Warm water pool 1st floor gymnasium
Retail/merchandising area Spa / Saunas 1st floor fitness reception
Staff and public amenities First Aid 1st floor group fitness
room
Change rooms Multi-purpose/meeting Plant and storage rooms
room
Subsequently, three concept plans were developed by OTIUM planning Group as follows:
1. High Embellishment model – All critical elements detailed above together with 50 metre
indoor and 50 metre outdoor pool plus adventure slides.
Page 10Tamworth Regional Council – Ordinary Council – 18 December 2018
2. Medium level embellishment – All critical elements detailed above together with 25
metre indoor pool and 50 metre outdoor pool plus adventure slides.
3. Low level of embellishment – All critical elements detailed above together with 50
metre indoor.
As part of their scope of works, OTIUM were also asked to develop floor plans, a 3D ‘fly
through’ as well as estimated construction and operating costs for each concept plans.
These requirements were all fulfilled and were subsequently presented to the community for
further consultation in November 2018, through the “Your Voice” online Portal.
Community concerns
While the development of these concept plans was being undertaken Council received some
concerns expressed by the Tamworth Regional Residents and Ratepayers Association
Page 11Tamworth Regional Council – Ordinary Council – 18 December 2018
(TRRRA), media and some community members in relation to the project and the process
that was being undertaken by Council.
The sentiment behind these concerns centred around:
objection to the sale of two existing pools to fund a new facility;
the cost of the development of a new facility;
proposed location of new facility away from CBD and associated transport networks;
and
the loss of a sense of place and the nostalgia associated with our existing pools.
In an effort to address these main concerns, Council committed to asking the community
more specific questions in future community consultations that followed.
Second stage consultation – Market Research
In addition to the broad scale community consultation, the Project Team also undertook
market research on the proposed Aquatic and Leisure Centre as part of Council’s broader
community satisfaction survey in October 2018. Council engaged a recognised external
company (Micromex) to undertake qualitative data collection on Council’s current community
satisfaction levels. As part of this market research the Project Team asked targeted
questions about the proposed Aquatic and Leisure Centre.
The results of this data collection, which sought feedback which accurately reflected the
LGA’s demographics, further demonstrated community awareness and support for a new
facility with:
awareness of a new aquatic centre was high, with 76% stating they were aware of the
proposal prior to the call. Ratepayers were significantly more likely to be aware, whilst
those aged 18-34 were less aware;
when asked how supportive they were of a new aquatic and leisure facility, 86% of the
community indicated a level of support for the general concept with only 14% of the
community unsupportive;
when asked about their level of support for selling two existing facilities, 70% of the
community were supportive in some way; and
sentiment on the location of a new facility was mixed with an even split of 45%
regarding the location being at the Northern Inland Centre of Sporting Excellence or
somewhere else.
Third Stage Community Consultation
In November 2018, a third phase of community consultation was undertaken where concept
plans were presented to the community for feedback via a dedicated online engagement
portal. The portal provided the community the opportunity to review concepts against
estimated costing and provide feedback in an open and transparent manner.
Council again took the step of actively seeking community feedback on a new Aquatic and
Leisure Centre with the explicit understanding that to proceed would result in the sale of the
two existing pool complexes to assist with funding a new centre. A total of 3,752 responses
were received with 80% in support of the proposal to develop a regional aquatic and leisure
centre on this basis.
Page 12Tamworth Regional Council – Ordinary Council – 18 December 2018
Of the three concepts presented in this stage of consultation, Option 1 (high embellishment
model) was by far the most preferred concept with 81% of respondents giving it a five star
rating. Option 2 and Option 3 had noticeably reduced support, with 16% giving Option 2 a
five star rating and just 5% giving Option 3 a five star rating.
A detailed consultation report has been prepared by Council’s Communications and
Community Engagement Team and is ATTACHED, refer ANNEXURE 2.
Business Case Development
Following the completion of community consultation, the Project Team engaged OTIUM
Planning Group to further assist with the development of business modelling based on the
community’s preferred concept plan and the development of a Business Case.
The Business Case compares the financial modelling of two options for comparable data with
these options being the High Embellishment model of a 50 metre indoor and 50 metre
outdoor pool with adventure slides as well as the low embellishment model of just a 50 metre
indoor pool with adventure slides.
Indicative capital costs shows that the high embellishment model will likely cost $67 million
and the low embellishment model (with slides) will cost an estimated $60 million. The
consultants have also provided an indicative capital cost to refurbish the two Tamworth pool
complexes and have estimated that this will likely be in the order of $15-20 million per
complex, to re-build and modernise, but not convert any water to indoor water.
Based on current population estimates and expected usage the modelling shows that entry
and usage fees associated with a new aquatic and leisure facility would be comparable with
other regional facilities.
Financial modelling for each of the new facility embellishment models showed conservatively
that the 10 year average business projection is likely to result in an annual net operating loss
of $1.2 million for the high embellishment model and $885,000 for the low embellishment
model.
The Next Steps
It is clear that the community support the development of a new Aquatic and Leisure Facility
for the Tamworth region. The costs of what the community are seeking in a new facility will
require further discussion and considerable external funding and substantial investment from
Council. It is therefore recommended that Council commit to proceeding with the
development of funding strategy to be further considered by Council in early 2019.
(a) Policy Implications
Nil
(b) Financial Implications
Should Council support the above recommendation, work will commence on the
development of a detailed funding strategy/prospectus to support the Business Case.
Any costs associated with the development of this strategy will be met by the current
project budget.
(c) Legal Implications
Nil
Page 13Tamworth Regional Council – Ordinary Council – 18 December 2018
(d) Community Consultation
A multi-staged community consultation strategy has been undertaken for this project
and is detailed in the above commentary and enclosed draft Business Case.
(e) Delivery Program Objective/Strategy
A Spirit of Community – C12 Provide high-quality sporting facilities to meet the diverse
needs of th community.
7.2 CONNORS CREEK BRIDGE, BARRABA - PROPOSED BRIDGE REPLACEMENT – FILE
NO SF3335
DIRECTORATE: REGIONAL SERVICES
AUTHOR: Murray Russell, Manager Infrastructure and Projects
Reference: Item 8.7 to Ordinary Council 9 August 2016 - Minute No 229/16
RECOMMENDATION
That in relation to the report “Connors Creek Bridge, Barraba – Proposed Bridge
Replacement”, Council:
(i) reallocate available 2018-2019 and 2019-2020 REPAIR Grant funding towards the
immediate replacement of Connors Creek Bridge, subject to approval by Roads
and Maritime Services; and
(ii) authorise Council staff to prepare tender documents, with the intention of
awarding a contact for the reconstruction of Connors Creek Bridge during the
first half of 2019.
SUMMARY
Connors Creek Bridge is located on the Bundarra Road, approximately three kilometres from
the Bingara Road turnoff. Deterioration of the bridge substructure has resulted in the bridge
needing significant maintenance and renewal work. Investigation over recent months has
determined that the extent of maintenance and renewal that is required is not cost effective,
and full replacement would provide a better long term financial outcome.
This report seeks Council’s support for the proposed replacement, and identifies available
funding sources for this work.
COMMENTARY
General Description and History
Connors Creek Bridge is a five span structure, approximately 52 metres long and six metres
high, on the Bundarra Road, north of Barraba. The original timber bridge was built around
1958. The bridge is the only remaining structure on Council’s Regional Road network that
contains timber components.
In 2001, the deck of the bridge was replaced by Barraba Shire Council, utilising a “Doolan
Deck”. The Doolan Deck is an unusual bridge design, which incorporates timber beams,
encapsulated in a concrete deck structure. Although briefly popular as a bridge renovation
concept in the late 1990s, this type of structure was abandoned in favour of more
conventional concrete structures, as the long term maintenance issues associated with the
timber beams became apparent.
Page 14Tamworth Regional Council – Ordinary Council – 18 December 2018
The most significant issue with the renovation that was undertaken by Barraba Shire Council,
was that the new Doolan Deck was built on top of the existing timber sub-structure. This
substructure is now 60 years old, and has deteriorated significantly. Connors Creek Bridge
was load tested in 2011, and found to be capable of carrying legally loaded trucks. The
report did not recommend a load limit but did identify that, despite being serviceable, there
were defects in a number of the supports that would require replacement or strengthening at
some point.
Prior to the most recent bridge replacement program, Council had 21 timber bridges which
were prioritised in replacement order and approved by Council at the Ordinary Meeting held
9 August 2016. Six of these bridges have been recently replaced, or are under contract for
reconstruction. Connors Creek Bridge was identified as last on that priority list, because,
although it had an aging timber substructure, it was not load limited, and had a relatively new
concrete deck. However, recently identified structural problems will require a review of the
priority ranking in relation to Connors Creek Bridge.
Structural Problems
Earlier this year, it was identified that one of the bridge columns had dropped by
approximately 50 millimetres. An inspection identified that this column was in poor condition,
and its base support (known as a “bed log”) had deteriorated to the point that it was being
crushed, possibly as a result of an overloaded truck using the bridge. The damage to the bed
log has allowed the column to drop.
Although many of the columns showed signs of deterioration, this was the only location that
was showing any significant movement. As the failed column was on the outside of the
bridge, the structure was immediately restricted to one lane, with no traffic being allowed on
the damaged side of the bridge whilst a repair could be investigated. At the same time, it
was identified that there had been movement in the bridge abutment walls. Although there
was no immediate structural impact from this movement, it was anticipated that this should
also be addressed during any repair work.
A structural engineering consultant was engaged to design the proposed bridge repairs.
During their investigation, it was identified that the repairs would require temporarily ‘jacking’
the bridge deck up to enable the damaged column and bed log to be replaced. It was
identified that the replacement of just one column in the set was likely to result in a transfer of
loads to other members within the bridge structure, and it was recommended by the
consultant that all four columns in the set be replaced at the same time. It was also identified
that the construction process associated with this column replacement would transfer
additional loads onto the adjacent columns and bed logs, which are also showing signs of
deterioration. These adjacent columns will likely require a similar replacement within a
relatively short number of years.
Through the course of the investigation, it was identified that there was a relatively large
establishment cost associated with the proposed repair, and that it was highly specialised
work, involving lifting and supporting entire bridge decks whilst work was undertaken beneath
them. Given the large establishment cost for such work, and the likelihood that it would need
to be repeated as adjacent columns continued to deteriorate over the coming years, a cost
comparison was developed for a full bridge replacement.
It is also noted that, during the course of the above investigation, some further movement of
some other components was identified in October 2018, resulting in a decision by the
Manager Infrastructure and Projects to load limit the bridge. At this time Connors Creek
Bridge has a 4.5 tonne load limit, with a heavy vehicle bypass available via Jump Up Road,
although this bypass does not cater to B-Doubles.
Page 15Tamworth Regional Council – Ordinary Council – 18 December 2018
Concept Estimates and Cost Comparison
A “repair” estimate was prepared by a specialist bridge contractor that was recommended to
Council at a recent bridge conference. This contractor has undertaken similar works, and
specialises in heavy lifting projects. They are currently established in Tamworth for a project
involving drilling large rock anchors through the Keepit Dam wall. They have indicated a cost
for replacing the deteriorated substructure and abutment walls to be in excess of $1 million.
A “replacement” estimate has also been prepared, based on a “unit rates” calculation using
the contract cost of recent similar bridge projects, and is in the order of $1.3 million. Based
on these estimates, even allowing for some inaccuracy at this early stage of the project, it is
not considered to be an efficient use of Council resources to attempt to repair the bridge,
despite the fact that the Doolan Deck is just under 20 years old.
Potential Funding Sources
Connors Creek Bridge is located on the Bundarra Road, which is a Regional Road.
Maintenance and renewal works on Regional Roads are funded through the RMS Block
Grant and associated REPAIR Grant. For many years Council has had an informal policy
position that general rates/funds and other sources of road funding (such as FAG and R2R
funding) are not applied to Regional Roads. Instead, funding for Regional Roads has been
limited to the Block and REPAIR Grants, and any other appropriate external grants.
The Block Grant is worth approximately $2.4 million per annum. The annual REPAIR Grant
is approximately $430,000, which is supplemented (50% funded) through use of the Block
Grant toward projects of a total value of $860,000. The REPAIR Grant projects identified for
2018-2019 are a $242,000 pavement renewal on Lindsays Gap Road, west of Nundle, and a
$623,000 pavement renewal on River Street/Rushes Creek Road, Manilla. The Lindsays
Gap Road project has already commenced. The River Street/Rushes Creek Road project is
currently anticipated to be undertaken during the first half of 2019.
Given the relative urgency of the work on Connors Creek Bridge, it is recommended that
Council delay the proposed pavement work on River Street/Rushes Creek Road until
2020/2021, and reallocate this funding, as well as allocating the 2019-2020 REPAIR Grant to
enable the bridge replacement to proceed immediately.
Connors Creek Bridge could potentially attract funding under the Federal Government’s
Bridges Renewal Program. This program offers 50% funding for replacement of timber
bridges, and is not restricted to Local or Regional Roads. Under Round Three of this
program, announced in September 2017, Council has recently received approximately
$583,000 towards the replacement of two timber bridges on Local Roads, being Middlebrook
Creek Bridge No 1 and Middlebrook Creek Bridge No 2. These two bridges form part of
Council’s current timber bridge replacement program.
Although the Bridges Renewal Program has been operating as an annual program, Round
Four has not yet opened for application and there has been no advice received as to when
Round Four may be offered. With the upcoming Federal Election, it is quite possible that the
next round of this program will be delayed. Although Council could choose to apply for
funding for Connors Creek Bridge under the Federal Bridges Renewal Program, it is
suggested, that as an alternate funding source (such as Block and REPAIR Grant) is
available for that bridge, it may be better to utilise any future Federal funding for additional
timber bridge replacements on Council’s Local Roads.
It is recommended that the recent deterioration in Connors Creek Bridge, and the difficulties
associated with repairing the bridge to a reasonable standard, require a reorganisation of
Page 16Tamworth Regional Council – Ordinary Council – 18 December 2018
Council’s timber bridge replacement schedule, with this bridge now being Council’s highest
priority.
(a) Policy Implications
Nil
(b) Financial Implications
The proposed replacement of Connors Creek Bridge has not been identified in the
2018-2019 Annual Operational Plan, so is currently unfunded. Recent structural
damage is considered uneconomical to repair, and this has seen the replacement of
this timber bridge elevated to be Councils highest priority bridge replacement.
The estimated cost of replacement is approximately $1.3 million. The immediate
commencement of this project could be facilitated by deferring the planned pavement
renewal works on River Street/Rushes Creek Road, Manilla, until 2020-2021, as well
identifying Connors Creek Bridge for REPAIR Grant funding over two years, part
2018/2019 and 2019/2020.
(c) Legal Implications
Nil
(d) Community Consultation
At this time, the Barraba and wider community has been advised of the load limit being
imposed on Connors Creek Bridge. Subject to Council’s decision on future
replacement of the bridge, the project could commence immediately, and the
community would be kept informed of progress.
(e) Delivery Program Objective/Strategy
An Accessible Region - A11 To maintain the current levels of service across the
regions transport infrastructure.
7.3 PROPOSED FREEDOM CAMPING SITE IN MANILLA – FILE NO SF1159
DIRECTORATE: REGIONAL SERVICES
AUTHOR: Paul Kelly, Manager Sports and Recreation
1 ANNEXURES ATTACHED
RECOMMENDATION
That in relation to the report “Proposed Freedom Camping site in Manilla”, Council:
(i) endorse the establishment of a freedom camping site in Manilla;
(ii) install a tap and provide access to potable water within the proposed freedom
camping area;
(iii) place two general waste and two recycling bins at the entry to the freedom
camping site;
(iv) install bollards at the northern end of Progress Lane; and
(v) designate management and maintenance responsibility of the site to the Manilla
Page 17Tamworth Regional Council – Ordinary Council – 18 December 2018
Men’s Shed group via a Licence Agreement and provide the group with a
community mower.
SUMMARY
Council has received representations from the Manilla community for a proposed Freedom
Camping site in Manilla. This site would be available for use by Recreational Vehicle (RV)
users and would hopefully encourage further visitation to the town and subsequent tourism
dollars.
COMMENTARY
A Freedom Camping site is public land which is available to campervan or motor vehicles for
brief stop overs. The site typically has minimal or no facilities, such as toilets or showers.
There are over 3,643 Freedom Camping sites in NSW and over 10,000 Australia wide.
Members of the Manilla community have approached Tamworth Regional Council (TRC)
requesting a Freedom Camping site be recognised within the town. The proposed location of
this site is detailed in Image 1 below. The area has been confirmed as being Council owned
and is designated as Community Land.
Image 1.
Proposed Management
Management
It is proposed to establish a community working group who will undertake the management
of the site through an agreement with Council. This working group would be responsible for
the management of the site. Discussions have been held with existing community groups in
Manilla, and the Manilla Men’s Shed have resolved to undertake this role.
Once an agreement is in place, it is proposed a community mower would be offered to this
community working group to assist in the management of the site, which would be subject to
a future report to Council.
The proposed working group will consider the rules/appropriate use of the site. In
researching other Freedom Camping sites there appears to be a trend in the ‘conditions of
use’ which include, but are not limited to:
camping is for a maximum of 48 hours;
Page 18Tamworth Regional Council – Ordinary Council – 18 December 2018
adherence to all state warnings/conditions. e.g total fire bans;
all rubbish must be disposed of either in bins provided or taken away with the camper;
do not waste water;
water is for site use only, not to be stored and/or taken;
allow appropriate space between yourself and other campers;
arrive and depart the site at reasonable hours so as not to disrupt other campers;
any loud noise after 9:00pm is not acceptable; and
if there is a donation box, put in a donation to help maintain the standard of the site.
Insurance
Insurance of the site and those within would be managed in accordance with TRC’s public
liability.
Establishment Requirements
Waste
TRC will provide waste management at the site. Two general waste (red) and two recycling
(yellow) bins will be placed and serviced routinely.
Water
TRC will provide a potable water source at the site. It is proposed a tap will be installed in a
central location in the designated area. A meter will be installed to measure utilisation and
sign placed on the tap to advise of potable water.
Promotion
Promotion of the site will need to be managed appropriately. The majority of Freedom
Campers utilise the ‘WikiCamps’ app. This is a crowd sourced database that lists over
31,000 sites and is described as the “ultimate camping companion”.
Bollards
The northern end of Progress Lane is immediately adjacent to the proposed site. This is also
the most direct pedestrian route for people staying in the Freedom Camping area to walk to
and from the main street. To ensure safety, bollards would be installed in Progress Lane to
prevent the laneway being used a vehicular access to the camping area.
Signage
For the establishment of this site it is not proposed to initially install directional signage.
Apps such as WikiCamps provide directional and geographical information pertaining to all
such sites and this is deemed sufficient in the first instance.
The installed tap will have a sign denoting potable water.
(a) Policy Implications
Nil
(b) Financial Implications
Establishment
Bollards - the purchase of and installation of bollards at the Northern end of
Progress Lane is estimated to be $2,000;
Page 19Tamworth Regional Council – Ordinary Council – 18 December 2018
Tap installation and connection from Namoi Street $1,000;
Water meter installation $2,700; and
Four bin stands and installation $1,000.
Total establishment costs of $6,700 are proposed to be met by the Local Works
Reserve.
Ongoing
annual water usage charges are unknown and will be managed within the Sports
and Recreation Division’s Operational budget; and
waste collection charges totalling approximately $500 per year are proposed to
be met by Sports and Recreation’s Operational Budget.
(c) Legal Implications
Nil
(d) Community Consultation
The proposed project was initiated by members of the Manilla community. The key
driver for this initiative is the associated tourist campers who would provide an
economic benefit into the local community and the promotion of Manilla across
camping and RV networks. Thirty Nine letters of support signed by prominent Manilla
businesses and members of the community are ATTACHED, refer ANNEXURE 1.
The Mayor and Director of Regional Services have met with the current Lessee of the
Manilla Caravan Park to discuss the proposed arrangement. The lessee indicated that
he supportive of the Freedom Camp concept but would definitely prefer that the site be
located outside of the town boundary.
(e) Delivery Program Objective/Strategy
A Spirit of Community – C11 Provide high-quality open spaces, parks and reserves
suitable and accessible to all.
7.4 FUNDING FOR AND THE INSTALLATION OF BULK WATER REFILL STATIONS – FILE NO
SF9059
DIRECTORATE: WATER AND WASTE
AUTHOR: Bruce Logan, Director Water and Waste
Reference: Item 8.1 to Ordinary Council 12 December 2017 - Minute No
428/17
Item 8.5 to Ordinary Council 8 May 2018 - Minute No 154/18
2 ANNEXURES ATTACHED
RECOMMENDATION
That in relation to the report “Funding For and the Installation of Bulk Water Filling
Stations”, Council:
(i) receive and note the successful application for funding to install seven bulk
water filling stations under the Australian Government’s Drought Communities
Program, in the following centres:
Page 20Tamworth Regional Council – Ordinary Council – 18 December 2018
Attunga;
Bendemeer;
Manilla;
Barraba;
Nundle;
Kootingal; and
a further station in Tamworth;
(ii) subject to the signing of a funding Agreement between Council and the
Australian Government:
claim exemption under Section 55 of the NSW Local Government Act from
the need to procure the seven new stations via a tender process on the
grounds that:
there is only one known supplier of purpose built water filling
stations; and
Council’s wish to standardise the new stations with the station
already installed; and
believes a satisfactory result would not be achieved by inviting tenders;
and
(iii) write to all contractors presently licensed to provide bulk potable water to
consumers, once the new stations have been commissioned, advising:
all water for potable purposes must be accessed via the filling stations and
not through metered standpipes;
all Council owned metered standpipes should be returned to Council; and
licenses to supply potable water may be revoked if licensed suppliers fail to
comply with these requirements.
SUMMARY
The purpose of this report is to advise Council of a successful funding application to the
Australian Government for the installation of an additional seven bulk water refilling stations
under the Drought Communities Program and to seek Council authorisation to purchase the
seven refill stations without tendering.
COMMENTARY
At is Meeting of 12 December 2017, Council agreed to replace the old water standpipe at the
SES Carpark in Lockheed Street Taminda, with a new filling station that allowed the
following:
two connections – one large diameter connection for the filling of water carts and a
smaller diameter connection to allow the filling of the 1000 litres tankers which
predominate during dry periods;
the two connections are directly connected to the water main;
Page 21Tamworth Regional Council – Ordinary Council – 18 December 2018
connection points are low level meaning no high level access is required;
backflow prevention is contained within the installation;
a single meter measures consumption; and
a payment facility that accepts debit and credit cards including prepaid access cards,
and PayWave and Paypass facilities.
The new filling station was installed and commenced operation in March 2018.
At its Meeting of 8 May 2018, Council considered a report on the charges that should be
applied at the new filling station and resolved to consider increasing charges levied for water
accessed at the refilling station to $2.50 per kilolitre as part of the 2018/19 budget process.
The charge of $2.50 per kilolitre was adopted by Council as part of the 2018-19 budget
process and is now in effect at the Lockheed Street water filling station.
Councillors would also be aware Council also issues metered standpipes to contractors and
others to allow access to reticulated water via hydrants. Metered standpipes are ideal for
some work because it allows the drawing of water close to where the water is required rather
than having to travel back to the filling facility. Additionally, for the towns and villages which
do not have bulk water filling facilities metered standpipes are the only way bulk water can be
accessed.
However, metered standpipes are not without issues including:
can lead to dirty water in the tanker when water is initially accessed from a particular
hydrant. For this reason contractors who cart water for potable use are not permitted
to use metered standpipes;
accessing water through metered standpipes can lead to dirty water complaints from
residents adjacent to the hydrant, because of changed flow conditions within water
mains due to the opening of a hydrant, which stirs up sediment in the main;
accessing standpipes located in the roadway, or on a footpath, can lead to problems
with pedestrians and/or traffic; and
the use of metered standpipes increases the risk of damage to hydrants and/or water
mains.
Council owns and issues all metered standpipes. In 2018-19 a user issued with a metered
standpipe pays an upfront bond of $1,840.00 against loss or damage of the standpipe, a
weekly rental of $23.00 and a consumption charge of $1.93 per kilolitre.
Two issues have now arisen.
The first is that up until the most recent rain, use of the new filling station has exceeded
expectations, predominantly due to the drought and Council has received complaints from
users, particularly potable water carters, that delays are affecting their ability to deliver water
and adversely affecting their business. The following information is provided in relation to
this issue:
the cost of additional filling stations is approximately $60,000 per station. It would be
possible to place additional units within Tamworth and/or in the towns and villages;
the cost of additional units, or at least raising sufficient funds to cover the renewal or
replacement of each unit, will be dependent on the income received from the sale of
water through the units. Income has been high due to the drought, but would be
expected to fall significantly when the seasons return to normal;
Page 22Tamworth Regional Council – Ordinary Council – 18 December 2018
following the most recent rains delays at the standpipe if any have reduced and this
could be considered what will occur during a normal season; and
the cause of the delays appears to be the filling of small tanks, either trailer mounted or
within caravans and the like. It would be possible to provide a further filling station
which only caters for the filling of small tanks etc. and leave the Lockheed Street
station to water carters.
The second issue relates to the use of metered hydrant standpipes for accessing water for
sale as potable water. Since the increase in charges for water accessed at the Lockheed
Street filling station it has been pointed out to staff, by water carters using the station, there
are two contractors selling potable water and accessing that water through metered hydrant
standpipes. The following information is provided in relation to this issue:
one of the contractors is based in the Moonbi Kootingal area and the other is based at
Manilla. There is no filling station available in either location. Both operators have
indicated they do not want to have to travel to Tamworth to fill tanks as this will add
cost to their customers;
other potable water carters, who do not have access to the a metered hydrant
standpipes, have indicated that by allowing the use of a metred hydrant standpipe to
access potable water for resale, particularly now that the price for the water at the filling
station is more than for water accessed via a hydrant, Council has created a business
advantage to some carters over others, and believe Council should address this; and
given issues detailed above with metered hydrant standpipes, particularly in relation to
dirty water and the movement of sediments etc. Council is not able to guarantee the
water is fit for the purpose being sold when it is accessed through a standpipe.
The Australian Government has recently announced an extension to the Drought
Communities Program, see Facts Sheet, ATTACHED, refer ANNEXURE 1, providing up to
$1 Million to eligible Councils for eligible projects. Following informal consultation with
Council the decision was made to apply for funding for the installation of a further seven bulk
water refill stations, one in each of the towns and villages with reticulated water supplies –
Nundle, Barraba, Manilla, Attunga, Kootingal, Bendemeer and a further station in Tamworth.
The remainder of the $1 Million was requested to fund upgrading of cattle grids including the
sealing of approaches to grids on Council’s gravel roads.
Advice has been received from the Australian Government that Council’s funding application
has been successful.
Under the rules of the program all funding must be expended by 30 June 2019.
The cost of each new station is estimated at approximately $60,000, which, as well as the
purchase and installation of the individual stations, includes the installation of road pavement
and concrete slabs at each new station, and in some cases possible extension of reticulation
to service the new stations. The quoted cost of the seven stations from the supplier, who
provided the unit installed at Lockheed Street in Tamworth, is $207,350.00.
As detailed to Council during consideration of the installation of the Lockheed Street station it
appears there were previously two companies constructing purpose built stations, however,
recent inquires has indicated one of those two companies is presently in liquidation. The
remaining company, Abberfield Industries Pty Ltd, was chosen to supply the Lockheed Street
station. Refer to brochure ATTACHED, refer ANNEXURE 2.
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