DRAFT VILLAGE ENHANCEMENT PLANS – LACHLAN SHIRE … · Condobolin is fortunate to have the...

DRAFT VILLAGE ENHANCEMENT PLANS – LACHLAN SHIRE CONDOBOLIN

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DRAFT – AUGUST 2017 – FOR INTERNAL REVIEW

C

ON

DO

BO

LIN

Please note that this Plan seeks to build on the feedback received from the meeting between Council and the Community on 17 March 2017, suggestions made by community groups over recent years (listed in this plan) and issues

raised by Council's outdoor staff, but still requires further review and feedback.


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1. Settlement Overview

1.1. Location & Road Distances

Condobolin is located in the south-central part of the Lachlan Shire.

Driving distances are approximately:

a) 18km (15 mins) from Derriwong (via Henry Parkes Way);

b) 62km (48 mins) from Burcher (via The Gipps Way);

c) 68km (50 mins) from Tullibigeal (via Lake Cargelligo Rd);

d) 102km (~1¼ hours) from Parkes (via Henry Parkes Way);

e) 104km (~1¼ hours) from West Wyalong (via The Gipps Way).

1.2. History

A comprehensive history of Lake is not part of the scope of these works but

the town has a history based on Aboriginal occupation, copper & gold

mining, rural production, and now recreation and the largest service centre

for the Lachlan Shire (see www.condobolin.nsw.au and the Condobolin

Main Street Study (2006) for more details).

It is important that Council build on an accurate collation of the town's

history when deciding on works as part of the Village Plan (including

signage, public art, heritage and landscape / master planning / street

upgrades). See Heritage Section below for more details.

1.3. Rail, Road & River

Condobolin is located on the Broken Hill rail line that extends from the

Main Western Line at Orange via Parkes to Broken Hill and onto South

Australia. Condobolin station was opened in March 1898 and remains in

use with limited passenger services. It is primarily used for rail freight /

grain (www.nswrail.net).

Condobolin is located on Henry Parkes Way that connects Parkes and the

Newell Highway in the east and via other roads connects to Cobar on the

Kidman Way. Fifield road to the north-east connects to Tullamore and The

Bogan Way. The Gipps Way to the south connects to West Wyalong. The

Lachlan Valley Way to the south-east connects to Forbes.

As the heavy vehicle road network has developed an alternative vehicle

route has developed that links the Newell Highway south of Gilgandra

through Narromine then Condobolin to the Newell Highway at West

Wyalong or to the Mid-Western Highway through to Hay. This route

promotes B-doubles and B-triples.

Condobolin is located on the Lachlan River. The main street is Bathurst

Street (roughly east-west) just to the north of the river. It has a fairly

strong grid street layout (modified around the river and up to Reservoir Hill

to the north).

1.4. Population & Demographics

At the 2016 Census Condobolin state suburb (SSC11002) (that includes

much of the rural hinterland) had a population of 3,486 people (down from

3,743 in 2011) with 1,599 private dwellings, a median age of 38, 22.4% over

the age of 65 years, and 22.1% were Aboriginal / Torres Strait Islanders.

The area that forms part of the Village Zone would be only a portion of

these figures.

2. Key Facilities & Events

Condobolin is the largest settlement in the Lachlan Shire and this is

reflected in the range of local facilities. Key services include, but are not

limited to:

a) District Hospital / Multi-Purpose Service / Emergency Dept.;

b) Public School (K-6) / St Joseph Primary School (K-6);

c) High School (7-12) / MET School (Private);

d) TAFE NSW (Western) Campus;

e) Lachlan Shire Council offices / Service NSW offices;

f) Public Library;

g) Tourist Information Centre;

h) Banking facilities;

i) Recreation Ground(s) and parks;

j) Swimming Pool and sporting facilities;

k) Caravan Park and camping ground(s).

This Plan does not go into detail on the full range of businesses and

industries present but there is obviously a growing industrial precinct and a

historic main retail street that service the town and the surrounding rural

areas. There is a major grain facility/storage with access to rail for freight.

There are also a range of accommodation options with motels,

hotels/pubs, and a range of camping opportunities. There are

opportunities to raise awareness of and upgrade a number of these

facilities including, but not limited to, Gum Bend Lake.

There is also a proposal to bring the 'Utes in the Paddock' art exhibit to

Condobolin in the near future and create a gateway feature on The Gipps

Way. There may be opportunities to add public art exhibits along key

roads between villages/towns as a means of attracting visitors away from

the major highways and through the Shire (e.g. 'Animals on Bikes' on the

Molong to Dubbo Rd via Cumnock and Yeoval).

There are a number of community/tourist events throughout the year

listed at www.condbolin.nsw.au but a lot of these events appear to be held

in nearby Lachlan towns – so in addition to key public holiday and sporting

festivals Condobolin may be able to create its own events that are specific

to its history and culture – e.g. indigenous culture and heritage.

The aim is always to maximise local employment and economic

opportunities to support and grow the community. With pressures on

regional towns and villages, there needs to be clear strategies to support

local business, keep local shops open, maintain strong main street

character and landscape/amenity, and promote tourism. Support for these

businesses should form part of a broader Tourism & Economic Studies.

Whilst this Village Plan is primarily about street upgrades and urban design

enhancements – the ratepayers' money needs to be spent wisely to create

desirable environments for people to live, work and play and leverage

greater economic activity. Therefore, investments should be supported by

a good business case and strong support and ownership from the

community.

3. Broad Objectives

Some broad objectives for sustainable growth that influence this Plan (but

may not involve specific works) include:

a) Adopt targeted grant funding opportunities supported by strategic

plans and costings and community/stakeholder engagement;

b) Adopt an integrated communication strategy that pulls together all of

the marketing groups / websites and creates a clear consistent

message;

c) Engage and work with local community groups to leverage new

opportunities and resources and get a greater sense of ownership and

maintenance of new facilities;

d) Engage and work with local Aboriginal groups to recognise, protect and

enhance cultural education and visitor opportunities;

e) Build on agriculture with value-add and processing, new technology

and training/education;

f) Leverage key infrastructure including rail, road and airport connections

and protect these from sensitive uses / with suitable buffers;

g) Leverage and grow key health and education facilities with supporting

medical, aged care, child care, and recreational facilities for a diverse

community;

h) Work with adjacent Councils to determine key freight and visitor

routes and provide supporting signage, information and 24-hour

facilities;

i) Continue to monitor and adjust to new mining and extractive industry

opportunities with potential for processing facilities and freight

connections;

j) Build on recreational and lifestyle opportunities to maintain a healthy

population and attract needed professions and skills;

k) Review environmental opportunities in and around the town to

protect, restore, and enhance flora, fauna and ecological linkages,

particularly along key watercourses;

l) Review water security options as well as environmental flows of key

watercourses and implement water re-use strategies;

m) Avoid, minimise or mitigate risks and impacts from natural hazards,

particularly for new developments and investments (and to protect key

freight routes).

Please see Council's Economic Development Strategy 2017-2020 and

Community Strategic Plan for more details.

4. Natural Environment & Resources

4.1. Topography, Watercourses & Flooding

Condobolin sits on the slopes between Reservoir Hill (~240m) to the north-

east and Goobang Creek/ Lachlan River and flood plain to the east and

south (below 200m). The civic part of the town along Molong Street sits at

approximately RL220m.

According to the Flood Planning Maps in the Local Environmental Plan

flooding only affects the southern edges of the urban land north of the


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Lachlan River/Goobang Creek but spreads out extensively south of the river

(including the Recreation Ground). Flood protection is not covered in this

plan but is an important but expensive investment and should only be

considered as part of a Floodplain Risk Management Study/Plan. Local

drainage is addressed further in Section 5.5 below.

Groundwater vulnerability extends marginally further north into the urban

zone compared to the flood area but most of the urban area is unaffected.

4.2. Vegetation, Ecology & Bushfire

There are no Biodiversity Maps in the Local Environmental Plan highlighting

sensitive areas around Condobolin. However, there is still important

vegetation – particularly along the key watercourses and over some

Crown reserves and opportunities to protect and enhance these

ecological corridors and improve connectivity (not costed).

A key opportunity (also highlighted in other Lachlan settlements) is

potential for a shire-wide bird trail that interconnects with bird watching

trails in surrounding local government areas. Whilst there would be

opportunities along the Lachlan River and Goobang Creek, perhaps the

most significant opportunity is at Gum Bend Lake to the west. Local

interest groups could perhaps put together known indigenous species lists

and design bird-trails around known bird-watching locations (supported

by technology & signage), supplemented by bird-hides.

Bushfire prone land mapping currently (2017) only shows risks along the

Lachlan River to the west of town and vegetation clusters/Crown reserves

well to the north of the urban area – so it is not a critical constraint.

4.3. Mineral Potential

The Mineral Resource Audit from NSW Government notes that there are

several gravel and construction material pits around Condobolin but these

do not generally affect the urban area.

There is also the Cowal-Fairholme potential mineral resource area to the

south-east of Condobolin (gold/copper). If these sites become viable they

could have economic/employment opportunities but have not been

considered in detail in this Plan.

5. Planning & Growth

5.1. Heritage & Culture

Condobolin has 15 listed heritage items within or close to the Village Zone

in the Local Environmental Plan including key public buildings such as the

courthouse, post office, hall/museum, community centre/Commercial

Hotel, Memorial Park, Anglican Church, Presbyterian Church manse, Sacred

Park, Bill Hurley Water Tower, cemeteries, and the Avenue of Peppercorns

(Diggers Avenue), Goodwill dwelling, Bogandillon Swamp, and a post box.

However, Council's own Heritage Inventory includes 120-130 listings

(including some rural properties, Aboriginal heritage, rural and mining

infrastructure, and landscape items) in and around Lake. This indicates that

history and heritage are an important part of the character of the town and

extend beyond the 4 listed items.

Council and the community should continue to work together to determine

whether individual heritage listings or a heritage conservation or

character area (particularly along Bathurst and McDonnell Streets and the

waterfront) may best facilitate protection, upgrades and heritage funding.

Heritage recognition needs to allow for appropriate development to

support the local economy (particularly along the main street(s)) whilst

providing opportunities for grant funding for heritage enhancements and

tourism. Upgrades to all listed buildings and places should seek heritage

advice. See 'Signage' below for more details on recognising history.

We have not investigated Aboriginal history and cultural heritage in this

area in detail but Condobolin is considered by many in the Wiradjuri to be

the 'centre' or 'heart' of their communal lands and the local river systems

would have been important cultural trails and archaeological areas.

Condobolin is fortunate to have the Wiradjuri Study Centre for the purpose

of promoting the study and understanding of Wiradjuri culture (training,

development, employment, cultural appreciation and awareness and

heritage, and a meeting place and gallery). This is a significant resource

though it is only open by appointment – so visitors would need to be aware

of this opportunity in advance.

Council and the community should continue to work with the Wiradjuri

elders and LALC to determine the best way to protect, enhance and

manage key sites and environmental and cultural education and tourism

in the area. This will inform signage, public art, and tourism strategies

(see below).

5.2. Zoning (Land Use)

The key planning controls are in Lachlan Local Environmental Plan 2013

that applies Zone RU5 Village to the core area of the settlement. A Village

Zone is a suitable category at this time but the town is of sufficient size that

it could potentially support individual residential, business and industrial

zones to minimise land use conflict if this was an issue.

There are some Zone R5 Large Lot Residential areas to the west, north-

west, north-east and east that provide an alternative residential lifestyle.

Zone SP2 Infrastructure covers the railway line, part of Henry Parkes Way

(north), and over the airfield, waste depot, and sewage treatment plant but

does not cover the other regional roads in the town centre.

The town has a minimum lot size of 600m2 for subdivision as it is serviced

by sewer and water (see Utilities below). The settlement is surrounded by

Zone RU1 Primary Production (which includes its Recreation Ground).

5.3. Growth Opportunities

This Plan assumes there is sufficient area for residential and other land use

growth at this time noting that there are large vacant residential zoned

lands to the north west and south-west of the town centre. There is also

potential to also grow the industrial precincts to the north.

With Condobolin as the primary service centre for the Lachlan Shire with a

local hospital, health and education services, recreation and lifestyle

opportunities (see Key Facilities Section below) – this may make it more

attractive for families and for seniors – so opportunities for growth in aged

care and child care should be considered (not investigated).

5.4. Utilities

As stated on Council's website (www.lachlan.nsw.gov.au):

The Condobolin Sewage Treatment Plant services the township of

Condobolin treating approximately 0.85 megalitres (ML) of sewage per day.

The plant consists of a 2000 EP Trickling Filter treatment system and a

P2000 Pasveer channel treatment system, maturation lagoons, sludge

ponds and a treated effluent reuse system. Sewage at this plant is treated

to a tertiary level with some of the final effluent being discharged to the

environment. The licence is required at this site because of this discharge to

the environment which could potentially reach the Lachlan River and is

sampled monthly for potential pollutants. Treated effluent is used to

irrigate the Condobolin Golf Course and for turf irrigation at the STP.

There may be potential to expand re-use of water at parks and recreation

grounds around Condobolin if additional pipes can be constructed (long

term – not costed).

The Condobolin Water Treatment Plant services the township of

Condobolin. The water treatment plant has a design capacity of 7.5

megalitres (ML) per day. The plant consists of a mixing chamber, dual cone

clarifiers, four dual media rapid gravity filters, chlorination and fluoridation

dosing systems.

Water is reticulated throughout the village zone and appears to run along

most major streets though we have not reviewed water pipeline

availability or pressures. No capacity issues have been identified but

upgrades to the water treatment plant (not costed) are currently being

reviewed.

Condobolin's Waste Depot is open 7 days (except public holidays). The

community has requested that recycling skip bins are added for farmers.

This facility was not inspected.

5.5. Drainage / Water Re-Use

We understand that water at the Sewage Treatment Plan is already

recycled for use on the nearby golf course and may be used in other

locations. Whilst it may be a longer-term plan – considering the harsh

summers and lack of water security, Condobolin could position itself to

recycle as much water as possible and reticulate it to most major parks and

recreation grounds for irrigation purposes. It could also consider

stormwater capture, particularly from Reservoir Hill and along the railway

for this purpose.

The community has suggested that there may be some drainage issues

along the rail line so these could be improved (this needs further

investigation). At the same time Council could add some limited

detention/retention for re-use or water sensitive urban design for

improved water quality outcomes (not costed).


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6. Entrance Design & Signage

6.1. Shire Location & Navigation Signage

As stated above, Condobolin benefits from being on the Henry Parkes Way

as the key gateway to the Shire from the east (Parkes) and also alternative

links from West Wyalong to Narromine and back to the Newell Highway for

freight and tourists.

It acts as a service centre to the smaller settlements but needs to compete

with other larger centres nearby. It has a number of attractions that make

it a destination in its own right for visitors but these still need to be well-

communicated.

As a major centre, there is reasonable distance signage to Condobolin from

most surrounding centres. Whilst it doesn't require Key Facility Signs

(White on Blue) on the key entrance roads (as most people would be

aware), ideally these could be a long-term goal.

More importantly would be to recognise that Condobolin could be a key

stopping / focal point on a number of major tourist trails and some freight

routes. Council should work with surrounding Shires to ensure

appropriate signage to Condobolin, including sub-regional tourist trails,

identifying (where possible) short-cut routes such as West Wyalong to

Gilgandra via Condobolin and Narromine (not costed).

6.2. Signage Strategy

Whilst this Section seeks to suggest some potential modifications to town

signage, for a town of Condobolin's size there is a complex range of factors

that go into determining appropriate signage. Therefore, our

recommendation is that a Signage Strategy is prepared by a suitably

qualified person that comprehensively looks at navigation, facilities,

information, and history/heritage signage to ensure a comprehensive

solution. Where possible this Signage Strategy should seek to minimise or

consolidate signage to avoid signage clutter and focus on critical

intersection and entrances. It should also investigate the use of and

funding for Tourist Trail Signage (White on Brown) in accordance with the

RMS guidelines e.g. bird-watching trails.

6.3. Town Entrance Signage & Gateways

The main roads to Condobolin are the Henry Parkes Way (north-east and

north-west) and The Gipps Way to the south.

Council and the community have invested in some much grander entrance

signage at the Henry Parkes Way (north-east) and The Gipps Way / Lachlan

Valley Way entrances that uses cut metal shadow lines of idyllic rural

icons/scenery and create a great sense of entrance. At this time, these

signs do not require any amendment (only general maintenance).

On the Henry Parkes Way to the north-west there is only the standard

large green/cream welcome sign in a blockwork blister. However, the

landscape/planting is overgrown and requires upgrading OR in the

medium to longer term a smaller version of the silhouette metal entrance

diorama could replace the existing sign (preferred for consistency but

more expensive).

Henry Parkes Way/Fifield Road (reasonably clear signage)

HP Way – 80km/hr signs (plant trees along rail corridor?)

HP Way/ Jones Ln/ Industrial Bypass (need bypass sign to north-west)

HP Way – Main Entrance Sign

HP Way Silos (opportunity for entrance mural?)

HP Way / Molong St (weak 1st impression / entrance needs landscape)

HP Way / Molong St (signage unclear / needs landscape)


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Note the proposal for a new Highway Service Centre & Tourist Precinct on

the southern gateway in the Key Sites Section below.

Whilst signage clutter is not a major problem there are a number of signs

erected by different village groups / organisations that ideally would be

consolidated into a single facilities & organisation sign at key entrances

only (not costed).

6.4. Main Street(s) & Heavy Vehicle Bypass

As noted above, Condobolin has a simple grid-layout modified around the

riverfront with its main retail centre along Bathurst Street with most of the

key facilities bounded by the river to the south, Cunningham St to the

north, William St to the west and Gordon St to the east. William, Denison,

Lachlan and Molong Streets provide the town centre core.

With Henry Parkes Way entering from the north-east and north-west of the

town and Gipps Way entering from the south this creates a sort of 'Y' main

vehicle route.

Historically the horizontal cross street of this connection has been the main

street – Bathurst St. However, due to the increase in heavy and long

vehicles and their impacts Council has sought to create a heavy vehicle

bypass that shifts this traffic to the south to connect to The Gipps Way via

Lachlan / Busby Streets and Harding Avenue. This is supported by Bypass

Signage at key intersections.

Whilst this is certainly an improvement there do appear to be some issues

with prioritising heavy vehicle movements (they have to give way at a

number of intersections) and the number of turns required along the

bypass, for example, along Harding Avenue.

Council has also created an Industrial Precinct to the north of the rail line

with the historic industrial area to the north-east of town and a new

industrial precinct to the north-west. Maitland St provides the most direct

route to connect Henry Parkes Way in the north-east and north-west and

traverses most of the industrial land. However, this does require sharp

turns off Henry Parkes Way and rail crossings. There may be a tendency for

some traffic to utilise Molong St as the 'short-cut' between the two

sections of Henry Parkes Way which passes a number of schools/

recreation/ civic uses raising possible safety concerns (but this was not

validated with traffic monitoring).

We suggest that Council gain a stronger appreciation of the issues for

heavy vehicles using these routes and consider ways to improve safety

and efficiency of these movements. Some intersection design options are

sketched in the plans in this chapter but they require detailed traffic

engineering advice).

For example, to encourage the use of these bypasses we have suggested

that some local roads have planting/blisters that discourage entry to the

local roads (see Town Centre/ Main Streets Section below for details).

Also, traffic priority could be modified so that the bypass does not have

to give way at some intersections (not costed).

Diggers Ave – 80km/hr (good street trees)

Diggers Ave (The Gipps Way) – Main Entrance Sign

Diggers Ave (The Gipps Way) – Recent tree pruning (add. planting?)

The Gipps Way – Bridge / Bypass to Cobar (needs bypass to Parkes)

The Gipps Way/Lachlan St – Bypass to Cobar (signage clutter–consolidate)

Henry Parkes Way (north-west)/Kiacatoo Rd (landscape opportunity +

needs bypass signs via Industrial Estate))

HP Way (north-west) – Entrance sign – needs upgraded landscape &

eventually similar feature entrance signage to other main entrances

Community group sign (needs updating/painting or integrate ent. sign)


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6.5. Community, Tourist & Heritage Signs

As noted above, Condobolin has an interesting history, an amazing

riverfront location and Gum Bend Lake, Reservoir Hill lookout, a number of

listed heritage items, and a well-defined main streetscape that are major

tourist drawcards. The community has already made efforts to make these

accessible to visitors with central information board(s).

Central Information Boards

Council's standard central information boards can be found at Memorial

Park (amenity block wall - shaded) and Gum Bend Lake (freestanding – no

shade). These are good locations – but eventually a shade cover should be

added to Gum Bend Lake (or new sign). Possibly an additional sign could

be provided at Reservoir Hill.

These boards have maps and a short history for a number of Lachlan towns

and some local advertising of services but there is limited information

about Condobolin and the boards are not user friendly. A redesign of

these boards could improve this. Ideally the boards would be expanded

to allow for one side for other villages and one board to focus on

Condobolin. This provides the opportunity to provide heritage and bird-

watching trails, a more detailed history and information about specific

places and buildings.

History & Heritage

Unlike Lake Cargelligo, there is not a large number of history or heritage

signs around the town. However, if it is decided these are appropriate as

part of a heritage walking trail – they should be carefully located to avoid

interfering with traffic or pedestrian safety and access and they should be

graffiti resistant. With modern technologies, these signs could provide

simple historic photos and limited text and direct users to more detail on

the internet or walking trail leaflets.

The 2006 Main Street Study (see below) suggests simple cast bronze

plaques on the walls of listed heritage items and interpretative panels

with photographic evidence at key intersections and places.

There is likely to be an opportunity to more clearly recognise the

importance of Condobolin to the local Aboriginal peoples through both

indigenous history and important locations (avoiding sensitive sites) and

this can then lead people to the Wiradjuri Centre. This could also align

with environmental initiatives and understanding.

Bird Watching & Trails

As part of a shire-wide 'bird-trail' there are opportunities in Condobolin to

highlight bird watching in the area and key species. The Community could

start with local bird species list and key bird watching points along the

proposed walking trails along the river and at Gum Bend Lake. Later some

bird-hides could be added in strategic locations.

Ideally there would be a specially coloured small symbol based signage

combined with leaflets and electronic / mobile phone based technology

to follow these trails and identify key bird species.

Caravan/Camping Facilities Signage

There is already reasonable signage to the main Caravan Park (Diggers Ave)

but this could be supplemented for Gum Bend Lake. Dump point signage

should be located on key routes without creating signage clutter.

The community would like to investigate some informal camping

opportunities along Lachlan River within 10km of Condobolin and this

would require signage in the future (not costed).

Community Information Board, Memorial Park Amenities Block

Amenity block & information board (expand info board)

Signage clutter in town centre (consolidate/ only essential signage/ use

consistent colour schemes for different types of navigation signage)

HP Way / Melrose St – 50km/hr sign (good landscape planting)

Melrose St approaching Bathurst St /bypass intersection (may need

improved visual signals to heavy vehicles)

Melrose / Bathurst St (Give way to major route / unclear intersection)


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7. Town Centre / Main Street(s)

7.1. Key Intersections & Pedestrian Links

As a result of these traffic movements we have suggested a number of key

intersections (yellow circles on the plans) where particular attention to

intersection design is important for appropriate safety, navigation, traffic

calming and a sense of arrival in Condobolin.

Bathurst St, as the main retail street, crosses four important intersections

including Melrose, William, McDonnell, and Denison Streets and the aim

(as stated above) is to keep heavy vehicles at the periphery of this set of

streets and prioritise local traffic and pedestrians along this section of

Bathurst St. Council has invested in intersection blisters and roundabouts

at Bathurst St intersections with William and McDonnell Streets.

In addition, Molong Street has a number of key education, service, and

recreation places – but it could also be used as a short cut for vehicles

connecting the Henry Parkes Way so it need traffic calming devices to

divert heavy vehicles away from this street and calm/slow remaining

traffic.

However, road narrowing / planting blisters could be added to the

following intersections:

a) Bathurst St / Melrose St – 2 blisters eastern side;

b) Bathurst St / Denison St – 2 blisters western side;

c) William St / Lachlan St – 3 blisters north and eastern sides;

d) Molong St / Denison St – 3 blisters south and western sides;

e) Molong St / Melrose St – 2 blisters eastern side;

f) Molong St / McDonnell St – 4 blisters;

g) Molong St / William St – at least 3 blisters south and eastern sides;

h) William St (near Evans St) – 2 blisters + pedestrian crossing;

i) Busby St (School to Pool) – 2 blisters + pedestrian crossing;

j) Melrose St (near Goodwill St) – 2 blisters;

k) Orange St (existing pedestrian crossing) – 2 blisters & upgrade.

In addition, there is potential to modify the traffic priority at the

intersections of Bathurst Street with Denison St and Melrose St.

Currently vehicles coming on the bypass / main road routes must stop/give

way at these intersections to east-west traffic on Bathurst St which is a

local road. The aim would be to give greater priority to the main roads

whilst not reducing the efficiency for local traffic.

One idea would be to change both intersections so that Bathurst Street

must give way to the bypass route – facilitating truck movements – but at

the expense of local traffic.

Another idea would be to add a small flat concrete roundabout at both

these intersections that means only giving way to the right for all streets

but still maintaining a slower traffic speed. It would facilitate truck

movements in a north-south direction but make it less desirable to enter

Bathurst St and direct them onwards on the bypass.

Whilst there have been comments that a roundabout at William and

Lachlan Street is desirable - because this involves vehicles heading north on

The Gipps Way/Diggers Ave turning right into Lachlan St bypass it may be

less suitable – but deserves consideration by a qualified traffic engineer

(not costed).

McDonnell St acts as a 'civic' link between the main Bathurst St retail

intersection and the civic precinct at the intersection of Molong St. There

are already existing central planting aisles/blisters between Orange and

Molong Streets that create the opportunity for large street trees that do

not interfere with footpath electricity lines and promote traffic calming and

a 'boulevard' landscape character. Council could consider the in longer

term whether extending this central planting strip all the way to Bathurst

Street with significant plantings would have landscape / streetscape

outcomes that outweighed the loss of convenience by being able to turn

across the street.

It is important to recognise that some of these proposals seek to modify

traffic arrangements on or near Roads & Maritime Services (RMS)

State/Regional Roads and RMS would need to agree to any modifications

that affected its road system, particularly for heavy vehicles, because they

are responsible for that road. However, as the bypass is already in place

they are more likely to be willing to negotiate suitable outcomes and they

may even be able to provide some funding where it promoted heavy

vehicle safety (e.g. truck rest stops).

7.2. Lachlan Community Strategic Plan (2014) & Visual

Streetscape Improvement Plan (2015)

The Lachlan Community Strategic Plan 2012-2022 (The Vision Twenty22

Plan) was prepared by the Lachlan Progress Committee and was followed

by the Visual Streetscape Improvement Plan (Oct 2015). These plans have

a number of good/ site-specific recommendations that are broadly covered

by this Village Plan and good photographic evidence of good examples and

issues in Condobolin. Recommendations include (for Condobolin):

a) Revegetation - focussing initially on sportsgrounds, parks and streets

with irrigation of parks and attractive yet hardy species selection;

b) Town Approaches – including irrigation and revegetation, mowing

verges, screening industry, and replacing/painting signage;

c) Main Streets – looking at ways to repaint heritage buildings and

improve maintenance and better signage to promote tourism, safety

and heritage;

d) Animal & Litter Control – through signage, fines, and engagement;

e) Walking Tracks – Continue to implement PAMP/Active Travel Plan;

f) Image Promotion – based around the theme of 'The bush / outback

experience' and improved engagement with community/visitors;

g) Security – clean and maintain street lights etc;

h) Recreation – improve facilities with youth focus, landscape / shade,

and visual appeal;

i) Existing Projects - complete & clean-up unfinished projects

7.3. Condobolin Main Street Study (2006)

In 2006 Council's Heritage Advisor (David Scobie) prepared the Condobolin

Main Street Study. We are unsure if this has been adopted by Council – but

there is a lot of useful information for how Bathurst Street and surrounds

could be sensitively upgraded to restore some of the historic features,

create a strong sense of character and user amenity, and allow for more

modern conveniences such as signage and parking.

This Main Street Study considers Bathurst Street in more detail than we

could in this Plan and focusses primarily on upgrades to private commercial

buildings including heritage/historic buildings and unsympathetic

development with some discussion on upgrades to the public streetscape.

We don't intend to reproduce this entire study in this document so it is

important that Council consider this Study when considering upgrades as

part of this Plan. Some of the recommendations in the Study may apply to

private property and require engagement with individual land owners to

initiate/facilitate.

Some key recommendations for private properties include:

a) Appropriate restoration of existing materials and finishes;

b) Reinstatement of elements which may have been previously removed;

c) Removal of elements which detract from the heritage significance and

character;

d) Replacement of inappropriate materials such as asbestos/fibro,

Hardiplank and vinyl siding;

e) Refurbishment of materials and finishes such as render, guttering,

down pipes, timber and paint which have decayed;

f) Structural checking of suspended & cantilevered awnings and their

drainage;

g) The appropriate use of signs and advertising;

h) The use of appropriate colours when materials are to be painted;

i) The use of landscape elements such as pavements and planting;

j) The use of contemporary lighting within retail premises to improve

visibility into these premises;

k) Consultation regarding heritage listing of private buildings and also a

list of contributory buildings as part of a historic streetscape /

character area.

It is important to note that the restoration of original post-held awnings

may require wheel stops or widened footpaths to prevent damage (see

Tottenham as an example).

7.4. Bathurst Street Public Domain Upgrades

Whilst the Main Street Study suggests a range of more comprehensive

updates to private buildings (which are to a degree outside of Council's

control if they have previously been approved), the main focus of the

community from the preliminary feedback is to just generally improve the

appearance of the public domain including footpaths, landscape and street

furniture.


PAGE | 11


The primary aim is to make the main street an attractive place to shop and

visit with the intent this will facilitate private building upgrades and

investment and new businesses moving into vacant premises. Some

suggestions from our very brief review of the main street are (many of

these may already be work in progress by Council):

Some key recommendations for public domain upgrades (from the 2006

Main Street Study and supplemented here) include:

a) Improved street tree planting and appropriate planting blisters using

species suitable to Condobolin's climate and low maintenance,

provide shade, perennial and/or minimal leaf litter, 8-12m high, clear

understorey, and don’t interfere with awnings or lights;

b) Replace palms over time as they are not consistent with Condobolin;

c) Progressive replacement of concrete block planting blisters with

simple concrete curbs at or marginally above surrounding ground

level;

d) Ensure planting blisters sufficiently large to support proposed trees

and plantings, good soil depth, and good drainage;

e) Simplify the range of blister planting species to give greater impact

with massed elements, particularly when hedging;

f) Look at irrigation systems that are vandal resistant to maximise

growth and minimise maintenance;

g) Feature areas such as pedestrian crossings and corners should include

shade trees and perimeter kerb hedging to support seating and

interpretative spaces;

h) Concrete inserts in roundabout should be replaced with appropriate

low maintenance planting of a suitable height;

i) Improved consistency in footpath/pavement materials with local

character and public art;

j) Increase in public seating located in consultation with the community

and police (e.g. a good distance from hotels, suitably lit, clearly

visible; near pedestrian crossings and refuges and main retail outlets;

evenly distributed on both sides of the street);

k) Appropriate and consistent under awning lighting;

l) Additional street lighting at key locations (such as pedestrian

crossings and seating areas);

m) Repaint timber bin enclosures;

n) Where possible consolidation of street signs to reduce footpath

clutter;

o) Bronze plaques on heritage buildings ($100-200 each – with half paid

by the owner) – say 30 buildings = $6,500 (half from Council);

p) Interpretative style panels (up to 10 panels at a cost of $12,000 in

total).

Bathurst St view west (needs street trees/building restoration)

Bathurst St view east (needs street trees/building restoration)

Bathurst St south side (hanging baskets good but lack visual interest)

Bathurst St (needs consistency in paving & landscape)

Bathurst St south side (replace palm trees / strengthen hedge planting)

Bathurst St mid-block crossing (needs seating, lighting, interpretative signs)

Condobolin Main Street Study (2006) – Central Pedestrian Crossing Sketch

based on an old photo/arrangement – but the seating/lighting is still

relevant.


PAGE | 12


Bathurst/William Sts (good central planting/strong corner elements)

Bathurst St view east (road repatching / visual cues traffic calming)

Bus stop – eastern end (limited amenity, broken kerb, no plantings)

Accessible parking (adjust levels to path & drainage)

Blisters (Inconsistent plantings and visual blockages)

Blisters (use concrete edging and update plantings)

Kerb ramps (fix edges / ensure accessible widths)

Blisters (fix edges and strengthen landscape)

Blisters (replace weed mat, tree guards, and mulch)

Memorials (ensure readable / relevance / location suitable)

Ensure street trees not

planted close to or

interfere with awnings


PAGE | 13



PAGE | 14


7.5. General Street Trees & Landscape

Most of the streets in Condobolin are wide (~30m road reserve) with a

wide (up to 18m) bitumen seal (though there are some streets/lanes up to

20m wide with a narrow seal (up to 12m).

As most of Condobolin has one storey detached buildings with limited 2

storey buildings along Bathurst St it is difficult to create street 'definition'

without street landscape. In addition, the wide bitumen streets need

opportunities for shade and visual interest.

Condobolin is fortunate to have a range of street tree plantings that have

been implemented over time including a mix of native and introduced

species. However, due to this time lag and changes in approach there is

not a consistent street tree plan for the town or key streets.

Some species have now turned out to be inappropriate for their location or

desired landscape outcome. For example, they have not coped with either

recent droughts, storms, or urban impacts and have died or are located

under electricity lines or grown too large and been heavily pruned.

A number of community submissions have suggested that all of the

settlements in the Shire need to embark on a large-scale tree planting

program to replace those that are unhealthy or have died.

Most of the recent village plans and community inputs suggest that a

Street Tree Master Plan should be prepared for Condobolin that provides a

staged approach to new plantings and removal of inappropriate or

inconsistent plantings.

This Plan has shown some indicative locations where additional planting

could be added in the short to medium term (not the whole town),

particularly at key entrances and main streets. This needs analysis by an

appropriately qualified landscape professional well versed in species that

are suited to the local climate and conditions.

Local community groups (e.g. Streetscape Improvement Plan 2015) have

indicated a range of species they would like to see considered including:

a) Large Shade Trees (+10m) for use around sports ovals and in parks

such as Plane Trees; English Oak; Pin Oak; English Elm; Poplar; and

Ficus (Fig);

b) Medium Sized Trees (<10m) for streetscapes where they are NOT

restricted by power lines such as Claret Ash; Jacaranda; Golden Elm;

Manchurian Pear; and Chinese Elm;

c) Small Trees (<5m) for streetscapes under powerlines such as Pronus;

Bechtel's Crab Apple; and Crepe Myrtle.

We have landscape professionals who can provide advice on suitable

species after the community consultation phase.

7.6. Kerb & Gutter

Generally, Condobolin has extensive kerb and gutter along most major

streets in the village zone (according to Council GIS) except towards the

outer edges and near the Lachlan River. This was not reviewed in detail

but the community submissions reviewed did not identify major issues /

extensions. Kerb and gutter extensions should primarily be driven by

drainage issues but in the longer term could be added to remaining urban

streets to improve street appearance (not costed/ subject to detailed

review).

7.7. Footpaths & Shared Paths

Council has adopted the Lachlan Shire Active Travel Plan (2016) ('Travel

Plan') and this has reviewed the existing footpath network and accessibility

and suggested a range of proposed footpath upgrades and extensions.

The main aim is to facilitate connections between key public facilities and

recreation areas. The future extensions seek to improve, in particular,

connections to the schools, hospital, recreation ground(s) and waterfront,

and link up existing paths.

This Village Plan attempts to show/incorporate most of those Travel Plan

recommendations (orange dotted lines) so they are not re-listed here

though in general these include missing links in the urban network such as

to the High School and TAFE, new paths through Memorial Park, over the

Lachlan River to the Recreation Ground, out to Willow Bend Community,

around Gum Bend Lake, and as part of a shared path system around the

Golf Course.

This Plan also suggest a few extra (pink dotted lines) for consideration that

are not in the Travel Plan (in no order / priority):

Streets

a) Orange St (McDonnell to Denison St – south side) ~210m;

b) Orange St (Gordon to Goobang St – north side) ~210m;

c) Denison St (near Bathurst to Oxley St – east side) ~280m;

d) Bathurst St (Denison to Gordon St – south side) ~185m;

e) Tasker St (Bathurst to Molong St – west side) ~380m;

f) Molong St (Tasker to Melrose St – north side) ~230m.

Kerb Ramps

Generally, kerb ramps are provided at key intersections and pedestrian

crossing and should be added for any footpath extensions. However, we

note that some kerb ramps along Bathurst St are narrow, have broken

pavers, and need repair (see Main Street Section above). With an ageing

population and likely increased use of mobility aids kerb ramp design

should be compliant where possible.

Bicycles

The Travel Plan notes that there is a need for bicycle racks at key locations

within the town centre including the library, post office, and Foodworks

(and we suggest the gym as well). A number of the proposed paths in the

Travel Plan above are meant to be designed as shared paths (see Travel

Plan).

7.8. Public Art & Memorials

Considering the natural features, Aboriginal and non-indigenous history,

and Condobolin being the focal point of the Lachlan Shire – there is

potential to significantly increase the use of public art to create points of

interest, engage the community, attract visitors, and recognise important

sites. These should only be prepared in consultation with local community

groups, schools, the local Aboriginal peoples and cultural groups, heritage

and historians and located as part of a broader strategy for the parks and

public spaces of Condobolin.

At the Henry Parkes Way (north-eastern entrance) the grain silos are

already an important entrance feature and one of the tallest structures in

the area. There is also a new trend in cultural tourism to visit painted silos

across Australia. Therefore, there is potential to consider professional

murals on the silos (with the owner's permission) (not costed).

There is also a key entrance at William and Lachlan Streets where the

Bowling Greens have not been maintained. Perhaps the corner of this

could be used for a central entrance sculpture.

As part of any heritage or bird-walking/recreation trails there is potential

to add a sculpture trail. This would be particularly inviting starting at

Memorial Park and extending through the town centre out to Gum Bend

Lake. Eventually it could extend around the proposed Recreation walking

trail. Exhibits could be added after yearly competitions or similar.

The 2006 Main Street Strategy highlights that there are a number of blank

walls in town that could support murals and art features that respect the

heritage / streetscape but create points of interest along Bathurst Street.

Until such time as some of the shopfronts are restored and vacant

premises are filled then shopfront should be activated with art work

constructed using local schools and community members (not costed).


PAGE | 15


8. Key Sites

8.1. Management Plan(s)

For all Crown Lands (and also Council Community lands and Parks) ideally

there would be a Plan of Management prepared that would guide all

future decision making in these areas and include the community and

Crown Lands Division in their preparation. A generic plan is suitable to

overview all of the key parks in Condobolin but specific Plans of

Management and possibly Master Plans are needed for key facilities or

major parks.

Council prepared the Parks and Reserves Five Year Improvement Plan

(2008) based on a community recreation survey but this is now outdated

and several of the projects have been completed. This plan notes there are

over 66ha of parks and sporting grounds in Condobolin. Council should

certainly aim to provide a range of parks and facilities accessible across the

community.

However, we note that there is a very large area to maintain with

increasing expectations for upgrades at each facility and some degree of

overlap of facilities. It is therefore important that the Parks and Reserves

Plan is updated and relative priorities are identified so the community can

input and understand what can be achieved.

8.2. Recreation (Sports) Ground & Racecourse

The Recreation / Sportsground / Racecourse is located on both sides of

Diggers Avenue to the south of Condobolin. It is a large facility with a

diversity of supported activities that services the entire Shire.

Council/Barnson prepared a Preliminary Draft Plan of Management (June

2009) / Draft (January 2010) – not yet adopted which provides a

comprehensive analysis of the facilities supported by sporting group

surveys and a draft master plan.

This is an excellent step forward in having a strategic plan for this

important site. However, sufficient time has elapsed that the Draft Plan of

Management needs to be updated and finalised, possibly with feedback

from key sporting groups to ensure it meets current recreational needs.

A number of upgrades have already occurred, the most significant

currently being the new SRA hall/pavilion construction.

Please see the Draft Plan of Management for details. However, we have

provided an indicative diagram outlining some additional issues raised in

community feedback and recent discussions but please note that we only

conducted a brief site visit and review and some of these issues may

already be solved or in progress, including:

a) Reseal key entrances, create entrance features & add lighting;

b) Re-gravelling of driveways and several of the car parking areas,

particularly around Pat Timmins Oval and the Netball courts;

c) Upgrade / new facilities at several amenities blocks including

kitchens, toilets, change rooms, showers, and kiosks (where req.)

d) Additional tree planting and possibly fencing around some of the

ovals for shade/ amenity/protection;

e) A walking trail around the recreation grounds that connects to the

proposed pedestrian crossing over the Lachlan River;

f) Lights at some ovals that could be used for regular night training/

events and possibly for night shooting at the clay target area;

g) Continuing extension of irrigation for ovals and tree planting areas;

h) Review of additional water re-use/recycling opportunities including

stormwater harvesting and detention systems (further investigation);

i) Appropriate flood strategies that recognise the grounds are in a

major flood area and construct any new facilities to withstand

flooding and minimise damage or risk to users (including tourist

facilities).

Excerpt from Draft Plan of Management for Recreation Ground

Rec. Ground North Access (reseal / add lighting / improve entrance design)

New SRA Hall (under construction)

Pat Timmins Oval (gravel parking areas)

Pat Timmins Oval (replace changerooms/ stadium seating?)


PAGE | 16


8.3. Tourist Precinct & Service Centre (The Gipps Way)

There is a current proposal to create a Highway Tourist Precinct and

Service Centre at the intersection of The Gipps Way and Lachlan Valley

Way to the south of Condobolin. This would incorporate separate service /

fuel stations for heavy and light vehicles as well as rest area(s) and facilities

that would replace the outdated rest area at this intersection and be a

major support for freight vehicles and tourist routes to Condobolin.

It is also proposed as a location to relocate the existing 'Utes in Paddocks'

exhibition to Condobolin to protect it and make it more accessible for the

public/visitors and combine this with an art gallery and ancillary services

along the river. The 'Utes in the Paddock' display will link to the tourism

trail being developed along the Lachlan Valley Way by Forbes and Lachlan

Shire Councils. Suggestions are to also include a National Jockeys

Memorial (it is opposite the racecourse).

This is a major project with significant infrastructure/building costs so

Council has prepared a preliminary business case/master plan for

consideration (costings not part of this Plan) and staged delivery.

8.4. Gum Bend Lake

Gum Bend Lake is considered one of the major attractions for visitors to

Condobolin. It offers opportunities for sunsets over the lake, bird-

watching, walking and hiking, free (by donation) camping with

amenities/showers, and a shared path link to Condobolin for

exercise/cycling. Even in the middle of winter it had a large number of

campers who we understand make considerable donations for upkeep.

Gum Bend Lake Committee has prepared a '6 Year Plan 2014/20' (Updated

Jan 2016) that provides a more comprehensive review of the opportunities

and challenges and should be converted into a Plan of Management.

It is likely that camping websites/blogs would be identifying this camping

opportunity but the site could still have some improved signage at key

locations (as part of a signage strategy for Condobolin).

At the lake, the following key upgrades should be considered:

a) Whilst the walking track around the lake has been gravelled, the

community preference it to see this as a sealed shared path (see

Active Travel Plan) with exercise equipment;

b) Access to the lake would be assisted with some sand or gravel

swimming entry areas and some jetties or boardwalks;

c) Try to attract a water-sports rental facility;

d) The camping area needs some improved drainage and possibly

gravelled areas when wet;

e) Some additional seating around the lake and two sheltered BBQs

(existing well used/ needs repainting);

f) Play equipment shade structure shed is closed off to the lake. There

may be a reason for this but ideally it would be open to the lake;

g) This is a focal point for tourists – so it may be worth investing in an

expanded information board with improved maps, bird trails etc;

h) Additional shade tree planting around lake;

i) Review of water security / top-up lake in summer.

Gum Bend Lake currently has $10,000 allocated every year in Council's

budget for Capital Works. It also has a budget of $108,500 for irrigation

works in 2024/2025.

Indicative Concept Plan for Highway Service & Tourist Centre with Art

Installation (Source: Business Case 2017)

Lachlan Valley Way/The Gipps Way Rest Area (maintain until replaced)

Gum Bend Lake – sunset & water birds (sealed path & seats around lake)

Amenity block & information board (expand info board)

Play equipment/shade (open up to lake unless reason for enclosure)

Camping Ground (improve drainage / gravel some areas)


PAGE | 17


8.5. Parks

There are parks spread throughout Condobolin ranging in size from focal

points such as Memorial Park and Bill Hurley (skate) Park to small local

parks in residential areas. We did not review some of the smaller parks but

focussed on the primary parks near the town centre. We note that has also

been the creation of a new 'Renown Park' at the site of the old Renown

Cinema in Bathurst St.

The Parks and Reserves Five Year Improvement Plan (2008) noted the roll-

out of shade structures, upgraded play equipment, and amenities in a

number of parks and from aerial photos it would appear a number of these

projects have been completed. In 2008, the surveys found that 88%

thought the parks were well maintained, 8% wanted shade structures, and

4% asked for upgraded play equipment.

Some outstanding projects may include shade structures at Buckland Park

and improvements in play equipment at Lions Park and Beech Park.

Memorial Park

Memorial Park located on the Lachlan River / Lachlan St is a key

community focal point and gateway to the town and has been highlighted

by the community for a number of upgrades. There is sufficient complexity

that ideally a small master plan would be prepared for this park

addressing the following:

a) Review of the Memorial Gates location and an improved entrance

and sight-lines into the park;

b) Review & maintenance of river fencing with opportunities for safe

views over river;

c) Construction of a new pedestrian bridge over the Lachlan River to the

Recreation Grounds (covered in the Active Travel Plan) at one of two

possible locations – either Morton Crossing or at the bottom of

McDonnell St;

d) New shared path through the park along the Lachlan River connecting

to possible river bridge and up Lachlan Street;

e) Upgraded play equipment – possibly with more of an 'adventure

playground' or a water play / sensory play area (though this could

also be considered at Renown Park);

f) Upgrade some seating/tables with shade structures in consistent

style & colour (2 structures);

g) Upgraded toilet facilities with accessible toilet;

h) Expanded Central / Tourist Information Board (shaded) (currently on

Amenity block wall);

i) Encouragement of long vehicle parking / truck rest area on Lachlan

Street near toilets (until Highway Service Centre constructed);

j) Stabilisation / planting of the banks (where appropriate).

Memorial Park Gates (may block sightlines/redesign entrance?)

Memorial Park – some large active play areas (may need perimeter shade)

Memorial Park – play equipment (only for small children / needs updating)

Memorial Park seating (inconsistent style / no shade / not fixed)

Memorial Park fencing (needs repair / limited river access or views)

Lachlan River (idyllic views but difficult to access safely)

Memorial Park Toilets (upgrade / expand information board)

Memorial Park Toilet (replace concrete path, landscape, new bins, rest area

for longer vehicles and trucks)


PAGE | 18


Bill Hurley (Skate) Park

Bill Hurley Park located at the intersection of Molong and McDonnell

Streets currently has a relatively new skate park and is ideally located near

several schools. Additional footpath and road narrowing blisters next to

this park are noted above. However, the community may consider the

following upgrades:

a) Additional shade trees;

b) Footpath extension into park to key facilities;

c) Irrigation ($26,100 in 2022/2023 budget);

d) A 'sensory' playground (further investigation required);

e) Ongoing maintenance and upgrades to skate park (incl. safety

review).

An 'inclusive sensory playground' has features specifically designed to

stimulate all children as well as those with special needs such as autism

and intellectual disabilities. Council would need to consider if this is the

best location for such a playground as alternative sites for consideration

could be Memorial Park or Renown Park – but the location of Bill Hurley

Park near the major primary schools should be considered.

Water Treatment Plant / Lions Park

Lions Park is located on the Henry Parkes Way (north-east entrance)

adjacent to the Water Treatment Plant (WTP). The WTP needs repainting

/ and upgrading. Lions Park is fairly stark and would be assisted with

some additional tree planting around the perimeter that could partly

screen the large WTP building. It is also schedule to receive the following

upgrades:

a) Playground ($25,000 in 2017/2018 budget);

b) Shade structure ($26,000 in 2019/2020 budget);

c) Irrigation ($17,400 in 2021/2022 budget).

Reservoir Hill Lookout

As much of the Shire is relatively flat, Reservoir Hill provides a unique view

over all of Condobolin and across the southern part of the Lachlan Shire

and the Lachlan River floodplain.

There is a need for improved signage at key town entrances to Reservoir

Hill to highlight it for visitors. At the lookout, there is some basic seating

and a monument showing directions/distances to key locations but this is

damaged and barely readable.

The following upgrades are suggested for comment:

a) Upgrade / repair / repaint seating with a shade structure/shelter;

b) Add an additional 240L bin;

c) Repair monument;

d) Provide historic/interpretative signage at the lookout with historic

photos (if available) (ensure vandal resistant) and recognise the

importance of this site to the local Aboriginal people;

e) Create a shared path / trail to the lookout extending from the

Hospital / North Condobolin.

Renown Park

We note that Renown Park is a recent creation from the demolition of the

old Renown Cinema. This park is located at the primary town intersection

(Corner Bathurst / McDonnell Streets) so it has the potential to be a major

civic space that contributes to the character of the town centre. However,

at the moment it is a large vacant grassed space.

The first step should be to prepare a master plan for this space as it does

not have any existing fabric to drive the design – but it has a lot of history.

Consultation and possibly a design competition could be held.

It is important that this space does not compete with / duplicate the role of

Memorial Park. Therefore, its primary function as either a civic space or a

playground needs to be determined in consultation. The community has

asked for an inclusive 'sensory' park (possibly at Bill Hurley Park) – but it

may be best suited to Renown Park.

As a starting point, it needs some perimeter tree planting to provide shade

and define the park. Gradually other points can be added as long as they

don't create clutter. Toilet facilities are located nearby on Bathurst St so

these should not be required.

Other Parks

Please see the list at the end of this Chapter showing a range of upgrades

for parks across Condobolin including playgrounds, shade structures, and

irrigation.

Reservoir Hill Lookout view (improve signage / points of interest)

Reservoir Hill Lookout (added shared path from Town Centre)

Reservoir Hill Lookout (repair/repaint furniture/add shelter)

HP Way (NE) – Lions Park (needs landscape / paint Water Plant)


PAGE | 19


8.6. Cemetery

The cemetery to the north of Condobolin is a significant historic / heritage

item that highlights some significant periods in the area's history. Council

has prepared Condobolin Cemetery Plan of Management (Draft Version –

April 2017). Ideally this would be finalised and adopted by Council after

consultation with the community and include some master plans for

further upgrades. The Draft Plan and our site visit identifies a number of

potential upgrades for consideration as follows:

a) There are a number of unmarked graves that need identifying;

b) Irrigation may need to be expanded as in some areas the grass has

being replaced with dirt;

c) Drainage may need to be improved as there are wash outs

throughout the cemetery – install cut-off drains to reduce inter-

allotment erosion / spread aggregate to reduce erosion;

d) Vehicle paths/roads need clarification (possibly with kerb and gutter

& bollards) to improve circulation and avoid driving on grass areas;

e) There is no clear tree planting plan that accentuates the entrance and

main routes – Plant 50 new trees and shrubs (native species);

f) Some high-risk trees require removal and provide opportunities for

new plantings;

g) Replace perimeter fencing and western gate;

h) Additional plinth in lawn cemetery;

i) Additional seating & picnic table (locations to be determined);

j) Key pedestrian footpaths (locations to be determined);

k) Historic/interpretative signage;

l) Upgrade toilets (accessible toilet).

Key Site Map from Draft Cemetery Plan of Management (2017)

Cemetery (additional trees along main driveways / entrance)

Cemetery (additional trees along main driveways)

Cemetery (some grass or gravel areas – may need irrigation)

Cemetery (identify unmarked graves))

Cemetery (maintain landscape / gravel entrance paths)

Cemetery (some seating may be needed))


PAGE | 20


9. Summary Action Table (Subject to Community Consultation)

Item Description Indicative Timing: Short (1-3 years) / Medium (3-5 years) / Long (>5 years) Indicative

Timing

HISTORY, HERITAGE & CULTURE

1

Continue to work with LALC to collate and recognise indigenous history, culture and heritage to

inform signage & public art strategy, education, economic and tourism studies Short

2

Continue to work with historians and local community members to recognise non-indigenous

history, culture and heritage to inform signage & public art strategy, education, economic &

tourism studies Short

3 Review of special character / heritage area and heritage listings & heritage grants Medium

ENTRANCE DESIGN & BYPASSES

4

Discuss with RMS additional traffic calming/ road narrowing devices/ Give Way signage at key

town centre gateways to aid in redirecting heavy vehicles around the perimeter/bypass of the

town Short

5 Consider Maitland St providing heavy vehicle and general traffic bypass to link Henry Parkes Way. Short

6 Landscape for Henry Parkes Way (NW) existing entrance sign Short

7 Add new blisters to

8 Bathurst St / Denison St - western side Short

9 Bathurst St / Melrose St - eastern side Short

10 William St / Lachlan St - northern and eastern sides Short

11 Molong St / William St - eastern and southern sides Medium

12 Molong St / McDonnell St - all sides Medium

13 Molong St / Denison St - eastern and southern sides Medium

14 Molong St / Melrose St - eastern side Medium

15 Melrose St / Goodwill St - eastern side Medium

16 Orange St / Denison St - western side Long

17 Orange St (existing mid-block pedestrian crossing) - both sides Long

18 Busby St (existing mid-block pedestrian crossing opposite pool) - both sides Long

19 William St (new mid-block pedestrian crossing near Evans St) - both sides Long

20 Add flat concrete roundabout to Bathurst & Denison St intersection / change traffic priority Long

21 Add flat concrete roundabout to Bathurst & Melrose St intersection / change traffic priority Long

22 Reseal intersection Henry Parkes Way / Jones Ln / Maitland St and widen rail crossing Long

SIGNAGE & PUBLIC ART

23 Replant entrance sign blisters with low maintenance plantings Short

24 Additional signage on Henry Parkes Way to truck rest area on Lachlan St / Memorial Park Short

25 Expand Central Information Board at Memorial Park with improved heritage/bird trails/history Short

26 Signage & Public Art Strategy for Town Centre and waterfront (as part of broader master plan) Short

27 Information accessibility review including info centre / signage / technology etc. Short

28 Signage to Wiradjuri Centre at Melrose St & Denison St Short

29 Public art or information signage in vacant windows along Bathurst St (with owners' permission) Short

30

Interpretative/history/indigenous signage along Bathurst St and at Reservoir Hill, Memorial Park,

Gum Bend Lake & Showground Short to

Medium

31 Heritage plaques on listed heritage buildings Medium

32

Public art projects at William St & Lachlan St entrance / along the waterfront / Bathurst St /

Recreation Ground/ Gum Bend Lake with local community Medium

33 Relocate/consolidate navigation signage along Bathurst St, Melrose St & Denison St Medium


Timing

35 Signage for Bird Trails & Bird Hides Medium

36 Expand Central Information Board at Gum Bend Lake with improved heritage/bird trails/history

37 Clearer bypass signage on The Gipps Way approach from the south (NE & NW directions) Medium

38 Clearer / one-way signage into Council Car Park between William/McDonnell Sts Medium

39 Repainting Town Entrance Signs (every 5-8 years) Medium

40 When Highway Service Centre constructed - new signage to The Gipps Way/Diggers Ave Long

41 When Highway Service Centre constructed - new Central Information Board Long

42 Consolidate/update community group/RV/advertising signage into single signs at town entrances Long

43 Henry Parkes Way / Maitland St bypass signage (if RMS approved) Long

44 Henry Parkes Way (NW) entrance - smaller version of silhouette diorama signage Long

45 Mural on Silos Henry Parkes Way (NE) entrance? Long

46 Key Facilities (White on Blue) Signs on approaches at 3 major entrances Long

FOOTPATHS & SHARED PATHS (ADDITIONAL TO ACTIVE TRAVEL PLAN ONLY)

47 Upgrades as per Lachlan Active Travel Plan 2016 - additional recommendations as follows:

As per

plan

48 Identify preferred pedestrian connection Memorial Park to Recreation Ground & costing Short

49 Identify preferred pedestrian connection to Willow Bend Community & costing Short

Footpaths (in addition to Travel Plan recommendations)

50 Orange St (McDonnell to Denison St – south side) ~210m Long

51 Orange St (Gordon to Goobang St – north side) ~210m Long

52 Denison St (near Bathurst to Oxley St – east side) ~280m Long

53 Bathurst St (Denison to Gordon St – south side) ~185m Long

54 Tasker St (Bathurst to Molong St – west side) ~380m Long

55 Molong St (Tasker to Melrose St – north side) ~230m Long

TOWN CENTRE / MAIN STREET(S) - STREET UPGRADES

56 Survey plan Bathurst St - Melrose to Denison Sts (only sighted William to McDonnell) Short

57 Review kerb & gutter levels, kerb ramps and access and parking issues along Bathurst St Short

58 Master Plan (Street Trees / Public Art / Signage) for Bathurst St & into cross streets Short

59 Strategy for enhancing main street character / repainting / heritage protection / signage controls Short

60 Review under awning and street lighting and provide incentives for upgrades Medium

61 Expand existing street tree blisters for improved growth / concrete edges Medium

62 Progressively replace concrete block blister/landscape edges with concrete Medium

63 Irrigation systems for planting blisters/landscape beds Medium

64 Survey plan McDonnell St (Bathurst to Molong St) - Investigate central planting options Long

65 Progressive replacement / consistency in footpath material Long

66 Seal Marsden Lane & Preschool Carpark Long

67 Central planting blisters up McDonnell St Long

TOWN CENTRE / MAIN STREET(S) - BUILDING / SITE UPGRADES

68 Review of special character / heritage area and heritage listings & heritage grants Short

69 Review funding / incentives for repainting of buildings Medium

70 Review funding / incentives for more appropriate signage & additional signage controls Medium

71 Upgrades to public buildings / repainting Long


PAGE | 21



Timing

STREET TREE / ENTRANCE PLANTINGS

72 Street tree master plan / species list for town centre & riverfront - as part of master plan) Short

73 Bowling club / Memorial Park Short

74 Henry Parkes Way (NE) entrance including Station Street Short

75 Henry Parkes Way (NW) entrance Medium

76 Council parking areas Medium

77 Denison St Medium

78 Bathurst St (mature trees) Medium

79 McDonnell St (central planting & footpaths) Medium

80 William St & school boundaries Medium

81 Orange St (central planting) Medium

82 Busby St & Harding Avenue Medium

TOWN CENTRE / MAIN STREET(S) - STREET FURNITURE

83 Additional or upgraded public bench seating Bathurst St + Foodworks Short

84 Repainting / repairing bin enclosures Town Centre Medium

85 Bicycle racks at locations set out in Active Travel Plan (Library / P.O / Foodworks + Gym) Medium

86 Additional street lighting at pedestrian crossing and at seating areas Long

PARKS - MEMORIAL (see Footpaths above)

87 Master Plan / Management Plan for Park Short

88 Review of the Memorial Gates location / improved entrance and sight-lines into the park Short

89 Review & maintenance of river fencing with opportunities for safe views over river Short

90 BBQ & shelter ($35,000 in 2018/2019 budget & in 2022/2023 budget) Short

91

New shared path through the park along the Lachlan River connecting to possible river bridge

and up Lachlan Street Medium

92 Upgrade some seating/tables with shade structures in consistent style & colour (2 structures) Medium

93 Expanded Central / Tourist Information Board (shaded) on Amenities wall Medium

94 Signage long vehicle parking / truck rest area on Lachlan Street near toilets Medium

95 Upgraded play equipment – possible 'adventure playground' or a water play / sensory play area Long

96 Stabilisation / planting of the banks (where appropriate) Long

97 Upgraded toilet facilities with accessible toilet Long

98

Construction of a new pedestrian bridge over the Lachlan River to the Recreation Grounds

(covered in the Active Travel Plan) at one of two possible locations – either Morton Crossing or at

the bottom of McDonnell St Long

BILL HURLEY (SKATE) PARK

99 Additional shade trees + protectors Short

100 Footpath extension into park connecting key facilities (see Footpaths) Medium

101 Maintenance and upgrades to skate park (including safety review) Long

102 Irrigation (2022/2023 budget) Long

103 Consider inclusive 'sensory' playground area Long


Timing

RENOWN PARK

104 Master Plan / History review / Design Competition (as part of Bathurst St master plan) Short

105 Irrigation in short term Short

106 Perimeter tree planting established early Short

107 Additional budget to be allocated according to preferred design Medium

LIONS PARK

108 Additional shade trees + protectors Short

109 Playground ($25,000 in 2017/2018 budget) Short

110 Shade structure ($26,000 in 2019/2020 budget) Medium

111 Irrigation ($17,400 in 2021/2022 budget) Long

PARKS - OTHER

112 Marlin Park - Shade structure ($28,000 in 2018/2019 budget) Short

113 Wellington Square Park - Playground ($25,000 in 2017/2018 budget) Short

114 Wellington Square Park - Shade structure ($26,000 in 2020/2021 budget) Short

115 Beech Park - Playground ($20,000 in 2022/2023 budget) Medium

116 Beech Park - Shade structure ($26,000 in 2021/2022 budget) Medium

117 Irrigation Mackinnon Park ($14,200 in 2020/2021 budget) Medium

118 Irrigation - Sacred Park (not currently budgeted but should be brought forward as main street) Medium

119 Irrigation - Wiradjuri Park ($26,100 in 2020/2021 budget) Medium

120 Irrigation Wellington Square Park ($39,100 in 2022/2023 budget) Long

121 Irrigation - Beech Park ($11,000 in 2023/2024 budget) Long

122 Irrigation - Apex Park (West) ($7,300 in 2023/2024 budget) Long

123 Irrigation - Buckland Park ($11,500 in 2023/2024 budget) Long

124 Irrigation - Marlin Park (not currently budgeted) Long

125 Irrigation - Apex Park (not currently budgeted) Long

126 Irrigation - Major Mitchell Park (not currently budgeted) Long

127 Major Mitchell Park - Upgrade play equipment Long

128 Wiradjuri Park - Shade structure (not currently budgeted) Long

129 Buckland Park - Shade Structure Medium

Long

MELROSE ST CRICKET/TENNIS

130 Repairs to tennis courts (to be reviewed) Short

131 Possible playground at Cricket Ground Short

132 Melrose Street Oval upgrades Medium

RECREATION / SPORTSGROUND (See Landscape / Footpaths above)

133 Brief master plan / further consultation with key user engagement Short

134 Replace Pat Timmins Oval change rooms ($260,000 in 2017/2018 budget) Short

Oval Upgrades

135 League Oval ($175,000 in 2018/2019 budget) Short

136 Main Arena ($158,600 in 2020/2021 budget) Medium

137 Soccer ($107,600 in 2022/2023 budget) Medium

138 Netball ($24,200 in 2022/2023 budget) Medium

139 Cricket Ovals (west) ($166,100 in 2024/2025 budget) Long

140 Reseal key entrances, create entrance features & add lighting Medium


PAGE | 22



Timing

141 Gravel internal driveways and parking areas Medium

142 Additional seating around ovals Medium

143 Additional tree planting around ovals for shade / amenity Medium

144 Walking trail around Recreation Ground (see Footpaths) Medium

145 Upgrade amenities/kiosk Pony Club grounds Long

146 Picket fence around key ovals Long

147 Lighting upgrades for ovals and shooting area Long

148 Extension of irrigation for ovals and tree planting Long

149 Potential stormwater re-use / retention / WSUD Long

GUM BEND LAKE

150 Master / Landscape / Management Plan for Park including bird trails Short

151 Camping area improved drainage and gravelled areas Short

152 Additional shade tree planting around lake Short

153 Play equipment shade structure shed open to the lake Medium

154 Sealed shared path around lake (see Active Travel Plan) with exercise equipment Medium

155 Sand or gravel swimming entry areas & weed removal Medium

156 Attract a water-sports rental facility Medium

157 Additional seating around the lake and two sheltered BBQs Long

158 Repaint/maintenance existing seating/BBQs Long

159 Expanded information board with improved maps, bird trails etc Long

160 Irrigation system ($108,500 on 2024/2025 budget) Long

161 Jetties or boardwalks Long

162 Maintenance/upgrade to Amenities Block Long

SWIMMING POOL

163 Fence children's pool? Medium

164 Construct Building over Main Pool & add pool heating (indoor heated pool) Long

RESERVOIR HILL

165 Upgrade / repair / repaint seating with a shade structure/shelter Short

166 Add an additional 240L bin Short

167 Repair monument Medium

168 Provide historic/interpretative signage at the lookout with historic photos (included in Signage) Medium

169 Shared path extending from the Hospital / North Condobolin (incl. in footpaths) Long

CEMETERY

170 Finalise Plan of Management/ Master Plan Short

171 Expand irrigation & restore grass cover Short

172 Drainage - install cut-off drains to reduce inter-allotment erosion/ spread aggregate Medium

173 Plant 50 new trees and shrubs (native species) Medium

174 High-risk trees require removal Medium

175 Historic/interpretative signage Medium

176 Replace perimeter fencing and western gate Medium

177 Additional plinth in lawn cemetery Long

178 Additional seating & picnic table (locations to be determined) Long

179 Key pedestrian footpaths (locations to be determined) Long


Timing

180 Upgrade toilets (accessible toilet) Long

181 Kerb, gutter & bollards to main internal roads Long

182 Identify unmarked graves Long

DRAINAGE / UTILITIES / MAJOR INFRASTRUCTURE

183 Finalise master plan & business case for Highway Service Centre on The Gipps Way/Diggers Ave Short

184 Review drainage along railway line and work with TransportNSW for improvements Short

185 Staged delivery of Highway Service Centre / relocation of 'Utes in Paddocks' Medium

186 Additional skip bins at Waste Depot for recycling Medium

187 Upgrades to Water Treatment Plant / repainting Medium

188 Work with TransportNSW to discuss safe rail crossing William St to Boona St Medium

189 Upgrades to Sewage Treatment Plant / expand water re-use & irrigation opportunities Long

190 Relocate Council Depot to Industrial Estate Long

191 Expand Library + Disabled Toilets Long

192 Relocate HACC to town centre? Long

193 Adaptive re-use of railway station? Long

194 Consider incentives to relocate industrial along Henry Parkes Way to Industrial Precinct Long

195 Consider locations for camping along Lachlan River within 10km of Condobolin Long

196 Master plan for Airfield/Airport with ancillary uses / buffers / expansion opp. / reseal Long

Date post:	17-Jul-2020
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