A new subdivision could be on its way to Coonabarabran.

At Warrumbungle Shire Council’s June meeting it was resolved that Council take no action and to keep the Old Chook Farm site as is.

However, a recent push from shire mayor, Cr Ambrose Doolan and a vision to see the town grow and advance, the issue was once again raised at the most recent Council meeting last Thursday.

Cr Doolan successfully rescinded the former motion with full support and an unanimous vote from fellow councillors. As a result, a new motion was put forward.

The new stance would be that Council prepare a strategy for the development of the Old Chook Farm site including new allotment sizes, subdivision design and costings - and that Council hold consultations with local real estate agents.

The site in question is made up of three different blocks. The total area of the blocks combined measures 8.1 hectares.

A Council report said that a local agent had valued the parcel of land between $231,000 and $255,000.

Cr Doolan said he looked forward to seeing the vision turn into reality.

“Obviously we will need to work out the logistics behind it and how it’s all done - whether it’s all done at once or bit by bit and sold off,” Cr Doolan said.

Chris Korff, from Ray White Korff and Co, welcomed the news and said it was the best way forward for the town.

“Well, it’s just common sense really,” Mr Korff said.

“Admittedly there’s a bit of work that needs doing out there, but hopefully it will be done as soon as possible.”

Mr Korff doubled down on the idea and said now was the perfect time for such a project.

“There’s lots of money out there at the moment from the government for first-home buyers and builders,” he said.

“Then there’s the low- interest rates and all of the interest from out of towners wanting to move to a small country town.

“It just makes sense to take advantage of all those things - and now they’re talking about developing the industrial area and putting the NBN out there, it all goes hand in hand.

“The sooner it’s done the better.”

Councillors on board

The vision of subdividing and developing the Old Chook Farm was welcomed with enthusiasm Warrumbungle Shire councillors from other towns who are also looking to follow the trend.

Councillor Ann-Louise Capel has been tasked with providing Council a stocktake or audit of the land in and around the Coolah district that is government owned.

Cr Doolan said it was an idea everyone could get behind.

“We want to see this town and the shire grow and this is a good way of doing that, so we are going to explore all avenues available to us.”