Wingecarribee Shire Council's draft planning document goes on exhibition

A council spokesperson said the document, which is currently on exhibition, was a roadmap for the shire's future.

READ MORE:

It details "innovative environmental strategies" that range from revitalising koala habitats, to mitigating bushfire risks and empowering community volunteer involvement.

"Community members will enjoy a range of benefits and positive initiatives as a result of the ambitious environmental and sustainability vision for 2023-2024," the spokesperson said.

"Embarking on a new era of community-driven environmental responsibility and sustainability, the council is thrilled to unveil this series of transformative initiatives designed to enhance our shire's sustainable future practices."

According to the spokesperson, the strategies place a thriving Highlands community at the heart of their implementation with a focus on community involvement and fostering a stronger environmental understanding through community education.

Environment and sustainability manager Barry Arthur was excited to share the latest plans.

"We are thrilled to bring forth initiatives that will directly benefit our community as we work together on a range of exciting projects, to create a sustainable future and improve the wellbeing of our residents," Mr Arthur said.

The new plan would see koala habitats created through funded agreements with private landholders. And the council has extended an invitation to local landholders to participate via its Land for Wildlife and Habitat for Wildlife programs.

"By joining these initiatives community members become active custodians of the region's biodiversity ensuring the preservation of their land for future generations," the spokesperson said.

To protect wildlife on local roads the council would strategically place new driver awareness signs on key roads to serve as "friendly reminders" to slow down.

"And to watch out for native wildlife," the spokesperson said.

"This would preserve the lives of our furry friends and ensure the integrity of their habitats."

The council has outlined a commitment to protecting the area's natural assets and to securing the safety and wellbeing of local residents by mitigating bushfire hazards using "active management".

"Recognising that volunteers are the heart and soul of environmental stewardship efforts the council will deliver a Bushcare Program that offers volunteers opportunities for important bush skills development," the spokesperson said.

The plan also outlines the launch of Sustainable Us. The community education program aims to start environmental and climate-based conversations within the community and empower individuals with the knowledge and tools to make sustainable choices in their daily lives.

"In the current financial climate the council recognises the importance of responsible resource management," the spokesperson said.

"As such, there will be fee adjustments to support essential environmental services. These changes are necessary to ensure the sustainability and effectiveness of initiatives like biosecurity weed control and property weed management plan reviews.

"Conversely, some fees will remain unchanged, and in some cases will even be cheaper," the spokesperson said.

The council was "excited" for the unveiled environmental initiatives to begin, according to its spokesperson.

"Wingecarribee Shire Council appreciates the community's financial concerns and thanks them for their understanding and ongoing support as we navigate these challenging times together," they said.

The council says community input for all of the proposed plans is invited and encouraged during the exhibition period to June 9.

Our journalists work hard to provide local, up-to-date news to the community. This is how you can access our trusted content:

Make sure you are signed up for our breaking news and regular newsletters