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Hills Shire Plan is all about growth

Record investment in infrastructure and services underpins The Hills Shire Council’s FY 17/18 Draft Budget and Forward Plan, led by a $83.2 million investment in public recreation, roads, footpaths and community buildings.

Mayor of The Hills Shire, Councillor Yvonne Keane said the Draft Budget and Forward Plan invests in key services and infrastructure needed for one of the fastest growing regions in the state.

“This is a great achievement, and reflects on the hard work taking place to produce quality facilities and services for the Hills Shire community,” Mayor Keane said.

“Under this Budget, we will spend $55.8 million to acquire land and provide more sporting fields and open spaces. This funding will ensure that our public spaces are attractive, safe and well-maintained, providing a variety of recreational and leisure activities to support active and healthy lifestyles.

“Council has set aside $53.7 million to upgrade roads, footpaths, improve street lighting and build more bridges which will ultimately provide traffic congestion relief for commuters and pedestrians.

“Another $30.3 million will be used to ensure that our natural environment is valued, maintained and enhanced through effective storm water and environmental sustainability projects, as well as garbage, recycling and kerbside clean-up services.

“Our library service will see a $6.6 million investment to fund active and engaging learning activities for residents.

“The budget also highlights our commitment to the State Emergency Services (SES) and Rural Fire Services (RFS) who will share in a $3.8 million funding boost to support their life-saving work in our community,” Mayor Keane added.

Some of the Budget highlights include:

  • $530,000 refurbishment for Baulkham Hills Swimming Pool
  • $1 million for Castle Hill Showground redevelopment concept design
  • $338,690 for a new park at Half Penny Reserve
  • $153,401 play facilities upgrade at Wisemans Ferry Park Reserve
  • $550,000 Sackville Cemetery upgrade
  • $464,740 for Samantha Riley Drive playing fields
  • $1,556,178 for Memorial Avenue pedestrian bridge

Mayor Keane said the Draft Budget and Forward Plan will facilitate a connected and supported community with access to a range of services and facilities that contribute to the health and well-being of residents.

“We are at the end of an extraordinary five-year term and we have delivered nearly $1 billion in services and assets for the community over this period,” Mayor Keane said.

“I am very proud of the Budget and Forward Plan and I can’t wait to see these projects become fully tangible in our beautiful community.

“I encourage all residents, businesses and stakeholders to provide further feedback to Council during the public exhibition period, to ensure that everyone has their say.”

The Draft Budget and Forward Plan is expected to spend $205 million on recurrent and capital expenditure during the next financial year and $831 million over the next four years.

The Draft Management Plan will be placed on public exhibition for a period of at least 28 days.

For more information, please visit The Hills Shire Council website: www.thehills.nsw.gov.au.

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