Cootamundra-Gundagai Regional Council (CGRC) is inviting residents to have their say on its Draft 2026–2030 Delivery Program and Draft 2026–2027 Operational Plan, now on public exhibition.
The draft plans outline Council’s priorities for the next four years, with a strong focus on maintaining essential infrastructure, supporting community wellbeing, and preparing the region for future growth.
Key areas of focus include continued investment in local roads and drainage, improvements to water infrastructure, and initiatives to enhance liveability and economic opportunity across the region.
Key priorities include:
Maintaining and improving road networks
Council will continue targeted maintenance and patching programs to ensure roads remain safe and reliable. CGRC is responsible for the maintenance and management of local roads within the Local Government Area, including urban streets, rural roads, bridges, and associated infrastructure such as drainage and signage. State highways and major arterial roads are generally managed by the NSW Government through Transport for NSW.
CGRC maintains approximately 120km of constructed footpaths, 150 km of kerb and guttering, 744km of sealed roads, 647km of unsealed roads, and 119 bridge structures across the network, including key freight and community access routes. These works include resealing, heavy patching, and ongoing maintenance to address wear and tear, improve safety, and extend the life of road assets.
Strengthening water security
Council is investigating future potable (drinking) water supply options for Cootamundra and surrounding areas while continuing upgrades to existing infrastructure such as pipelines, reservoirs and water mains. This work includes long-term planning for new or improved water sources and improving system reliability to reduce interruptions and meet future demand from population growth and development.
Supporting environmental initiatives
Council is committed to protecting and enhancing the region’s natural environment through a range of projects. This includes the regeneration of Morley’s Creek in Gundagai and the development of a masterplan for Muttama Creek in Cootamundra. Additional initiatives include creek and waterway restoration works, urban greening and street tree programs, weed and pest management, and environmental planning to reduce impacts on waterways and biodiversity. These projects improve water quality, reduce erosion, and create healthier, more attractive public spaces.
Enhancing drainage and town infrastructure
Council is undertaking improved drainage modelling and flood studies to better understand how water moves through towns during rainfall events. For the community, this means safer and more reliable roads and footpaths during wet weather, better identification and resolution of drainage problem areas, reduced impacts from minor flooding, and more informed planning for future infrastructure upgrades and development.
The Delivery Program outlines measurable outcomes aligned with Council’s Community Strategic Plan, while the Operational Plan details the projects, services and budget allocations for the 2026–2027 financial year.
Together, these documents ensure Council resources are directed where they are needed most, enabling priority projects to be delivered effectively.
Council recognises the vital role the community plays in shaping the region’s future and is encouraging residents, businesses and community groups to review the draft plans and provide feedback.
The draft documents are on public exhibition until 5.00pm, Tuesday 26 May 2026.
To view the plans and make a submission, visit Council’s website or attend a Council office or library in Cootamundra or Gundagai.
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