$2m to develop land out of flood's way in Eugowra

Twenty new residential lots will be developed in Eugowra with the release of $2million in NSW Government funding. The development will provide land for new homes, particularly giving people who have received a buyback under the Central West Resilient Homes Program the opportunity to rebuild their lives locally, Cabonne Council says. The announcement was made in NSW Parliament by Premier, Chris Minns on behalf of Minister Tara Moriarty, following a question from Member for Orange, Phil Donato. It follows almost three years of relentless advocacy, with Mayor Kevin Beatty describing it as another significant step forward in efforts to rebuild Eugowra. “Eugowra was devastated by the November 2022 floods, and since day one, Council made it clear that recovery couldn’t just mean rebuilding what was lost. It had to mean creating something stronger, safer, and more sustainable for future generations," he said. Cabonne Council identified the need for suitable serviced land in Eugowra as a top priority, and pursued the highly competitive Regional Development and Community Investment Program grant to deliver a strategic solution and support recovery. The funding will ensure residents who wish to remain in Eugowra can do so as safely and addresses the shortage of serviced land available for relocation within the community. “This isn’t just about infrastructure, it is about people and keeping the Eugowra community together by giving residents the option to stay near their family and friends and ensuring Eugowra remains thriving and resilience into the future,” Cr Beatty said. Minister for Recovery Janelle Saffin said having access to new, flood-resilient land meant safety, stability and hope for those who had been through the trauma of losing their home. “By prioritising people who’ve received a buyback under the Resilient Homes Program, we’re helping them stay part of their community while moving to safer ground," she said. Independent Member for Orange, Phil Donato said it wasn't only important to repair flood damage, but to grow. “This funding will allow Cabonne Shire Council to establish new residential land in Eugowra outside of the mapped flood envelope, to support and sustain existing population of residents relocating from properties identified for buy-back, while providing housing opportunities for future growth of the town," he said. The Cabonne Housing and Land Development Project will involve the acquisition of suitable land in the vicinity of Loftus Street, along with construction of critical infrastructure including water, sewer and electrical connections, stormwater systems, internal roads, footpaths, vegetation removal and landscaping. Works to be delivered under the project include: • Full construction of Loftus Street, Eugowra • Installation of essential services including water, sewer, electricity, and telecommunications • Roadworks, footpaths, and stormwater drainage • Landscaping and public amenities The funding is in addition to the broader Central West Recovery Package, which includes the $40 million Resilient Housing Program. Chris Minns, Premier of New South Wales, recognised the enormous hardship the Eugowra community has endured since the 2022 floods. “By creating new housing on safer ground, we’re reducing future flood risk while helping to keep this tight-knit community together," he said. “I want to thank the Member for Orange, Phil Donato, for his advocacy and commitment to the people of Eugowra. "We will continue to work with Phil to get this community back on its feet and ensure it’s stronger and safer in the years ahead.” Cr Beatty thanked the NSW Government, Mr Donato and Ms Saffin for their support. “Council never gave up on this goal, and I am incredibly proud of what we have achieved."

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