Helping manage the impact of major infrastructure booms


International examples of how communities can make the most of major infrastructure projects will feature in a major think tank on the Lower Clarence this week.

The Australian chapter of the Eastern Regional Organisation for Planning and Human Settlements will have a panel of international speakers who will talk on such things as ensuring sustainable benefits from the London Olympics and managing investments around North Sea oil. Domestic speakers will share their experiences on such things as SPC in Shepparton and the Gunns Pulp Mill in Tasmania.

The organisation and the Clarence Valley Council have joined forces to present the think tank. Its Australian chapter president, Kerry McGovern, said infrastructure development has been assumed to be good for the communities served and the economy.

“This will only be so when local communities put in the effort to ensure benefits flow to them,” she said. “It doesn’t happen by chance. Infrastructure brings with it extra costs to operate and maintain the assets. These are often borne by local and state governments and the local communities.”

Mayor, Richie Williamson, the community should have confidence the council was showing leadership and embracing learning opportunities in advance through partnering with the organisation. “The think tank forum will be a fantastic learning opportunity and create ongoing contacts and networks, even friendships, ideal for talking through issues and bouncing ideas,” he said.

“Clarence Roundtable members can ensure the whole community is included throughout the infrastructure boom. They are a key community portal into the projects helping to have their community’s voice heard through the Roundtable process.”

The organisation’s Clarence-based executive member and experienced sustainable future and regional planner, Peter Cuming, said it was vital community values related to protecting the environment and lifestyle, and ensuring a wide range of local people benefited socially and economically, were embraced in the goals and actions of the projects. “These challenges can be met when project planning and decision-making combines local community experience and understanding with project delivery partners’ expertise, such as with the Clarence Roundtable, working together for shared outcomes,” he said.

For more information visit Clarence Valley Council