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A 135-lot subdivision on Mudgee’s northern outskirts has been given the go-ahead despite one councillor refusing to vote on the matter. Councillor Percy Thompson left the room during a half hour debate over the site, owned by Mid-Western Region mayor Des Kennedy. All but one councillor, Esme Martens, voted against Cr Thompson’s proposal to defer any decision until after ICAC’s investigation into council. “There is an investigation into this council,” Cr Thompson said. “I’m concerned we’ll have a further investigation.” Other councillors said there was no link between the investigation and the proposed development. One hundred and thirty five residential lots ranging between 2000 and 4000 square metres are proposed for the site that fronts Ulan Road and adjoins farmland, low density residential land and the Australian Rural Education Centre (AREC) site. AREC general manager, Steve Garland submitted an objection to the proposal in its current form. His was one of five objections received by council. Mr Garland said AREC currently hosts Mudgee Small Farm Field Days, the Mudgee Bike Muster, the Festival of Yesteryear, competitive motorcross and equestrian events, that may be incompatible with residential land use. “Under-estimation of current noise generated by AREC, Ulan Road and airport operations will lead to further conflicts with new neighbours if development planning for noise mitigation has not been adequately addressed,” he said. “It is emphasised that potential noise conflict should be dealt with upfront in the design stage to prevent further issues. We feel that if this is not fully addressed this community owned facility will ultimately be shut down.” The subdivision plan includes a landscaped buffer along the entire Ulan Road frontage plus three proposed parks scattered throughout. Four connection roads through to the future subdivision to the north and south will be included. Estimated cost of the development is $4,725,000. A report prepared by council’s planning department recommended the development application be approved. Councillor Kennedy declared a pecuniary conflict of interest in the matter and was absent for all discussions and voting.

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