TAMWORTH Regional Council is seeking further confirmation from the state government of its commitment to fund a new fire control centre near Westdale.
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A development application for the $3.9 million facility was lodged with the council in January, to be funded through the state government’s Emergency Services Levy, which is used for the operation of the Rural Fire Service (RFS), Fire and Rescue NSW and the State Emergency Service.
But, in a report to council at the last meeting, it was noted council’s allocation for the RFS under the service’s 2015/16 budget – even when combined with a previous allocation towards the project – would not be enough to complete the new centre.
“Construction works will be unable to commence until sufficient funds are confirmed, with the approved allocations for 2016/17 not expected to be advised until December 2016,” the report read.
The new centre, which has been discussed over many years, would include a fire control centre, special operations centre, storage shed, helipads and radio tower.
It’s been proposed for a council-owned site on Country Ln, off Gunnedah Rd, and would replace the current RFS headquarters in Taminda.
While noting the government had shown some intent for the project to proceed, the report emphasised there wasn’t yet “a solid financial commitment towards its completion”, prompting councillors to endorse further representations.
Council agreed a letter should be sent to the minister for emergency services and the RFS commissioner seeking clarification of their commitment to the regional fire control centre, and request confirmation of a financial commitment from the state towards its construction during 2016/17.
Cr Phil Betts said it was a matter of great importance, because a new centre was desperately needed.
