REPRESENTATIVES from Dungog Shire Council and Hunter Water met on Monday, 28 April to discuss the organisations’ interests in common.
A spokesperson for Council said the meeting focused on progressing shared priorities including faster development assessment processes, updated catchment protection guidelines, and future servicing plans to support sustainable growth, particularly around Clarence Town.
Mayor Digby Rayward said the discussions marked a positive step forward.
“Dungog Shire plays a vital role in safeguarding the water security of the broader Hunter region,” Mayor Rayward said.
“We are proud of our contribution and are committed to building a stronger partnership with Hunter Water that recognises the unique role our community plays, and delivers fair and practical outcomes for residents and businesses.
“We look forward to working closely together on the opportunities identified.”
Hunter Water Managing Director Darren Cleary welcomed the “strengthened collaboration”.
“We appreciate Dungog Shire Council’s leadership and the strong stewardship of its catchments,” Mr Cleary said.
“Hunter Water is committed to working with Council to update our guidelines for development in drinking water catchments, working together to streamline development assessments, and explore infrastructure solutions that support sustainable growth while protecting the region’s drinking water quality.”
The organisations also agreed to explore opportunities for closer collaboration on planning and water management reforms.
Work is already underway between the two organisations, including Hunter Water’s support for Dungog Shire’s initiatives to improve development processes and its commitment to jointly reviewing wastewater servicing strategies for future growth areas around Clarence Town.
Both parties agreed to meet quarterly going forward to maintain momentum and ensure ongoing progress.
