Draft plan aims to protect and enhance Tharwa’s village character


Released 11/08/2017

Tharwa’s Draft Village Plan proposes to improve the village’s recreational and cultural appeal and generate economic growth and opportunities, Minister for Planning and Land Management Mick Gentleman said.

“Set in the picturesque landscape beside the Murrumbidgee River at the foot of Mount Tennent, Tharwa is the ACT’s oldest European settlement and close to the hearts of many,” Minister Gentleman said.

The draft village plan makes recommendations to:

  • Make the village core an attractive, social, recreational and creative hub for the local community while also attracting visitors to experience the fine qualities of a rural village lifestyle.
  • Ensure that the Cuppacumbalong Homestead precinct expresses and enhances the story of Tharwa.
  • Release vacant blocks of land that are suitable for residential development and encourage a built form and siting of new dwellings that complement the historic features of Tharwa’s older houses.
  • Protect and enhance Tharwa’s history (both Indigenous and European) and unique natural environment.
  • Protect and enhance the natural environment, particularly improving the riparian zone of the Murrumbidgee River to benefit recreation opportunities.

In particular, the draft village plan recommends a new shared pathway to connect the village’s key attractions and also recommends rezoning the tennis courts and Tharwa Public Hall to allow for more commercial opportunities in the village.

“The ACT Government understands the importance of Tharwa to those who live, work and visit the village and the unique challenges that it presents,” Minister Gentleman said.

“Community engagement has been crucial in developing a strong vision for the village. I encourage all Tharwa residents and the wider community to review, discuss and submit their feedback on the draft village plan. This will inform the final village plan and the preparation of a new precinct code to define Tharwa’s planning and heritage requirements into the future.”

To view the draft village plan visit http://www.yoursay.act.gov.au/.  Consultation closes on 22 September 2017.

- Statement ends -

Mick Gentleman, MLA | Media Releases


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