Community collaboration shapes Berridale’s future

Published on 17 December 2024

Local community members and people across the country with a close connection to the heart of the Snowy Mountains have provided extensive feedback this year on the Berridale Master Plan, voicing overwhelming support for Council’s vision to create a unified, accessible, and sustainable village centre.

The revised master plan will be presented to Council for adoption in early 2025.

Council particularly acknowledges the dedication of the volunteer members of the Berridale Master Plan Project Engagement Group (PEG) since its formation in August 2023, for their generous insight, local expertise, and for connecting Council and the community as we work together to write the next chapter in Berridale’s story.

‘The level of feedback we've received demonstrates how passionate our community is about Berridale's future,’ said Snowy Monaro Regional Council Mayor Chris Hanna.

‘This project, funded under Round 5 of the NSW Government's Stronger Country Communities Fund, represents a significant step forward in enhancing the village centre.’

Once the revised plan has been adopted by Council next year, a specialist quantity surveyor will be brought in to cost out all the different projects. Our projects team will then prioritise this costed list, with any works that can be completed with remaining master plan grant funding undertaken first.

Later in 2025, the team will assess funding options for all outstanding master plan projects.

Key themes raised by the community through this consultation included safety improvements around pedestrian crossings and pathway connections, environmental considerations with heritage-listed trees and the proposed creek widening, youth recreational facilities, accessibility, and stormwater management.

Council made significant changes to the master plan in response to community feedback:

• Enhanced safety features at key pathway crossing points
• Additional amenities, including bins and shelters around the proposed skate park
• Recognising the local historical importance of Aitchison Cottage, noting specifically that it will be retained and restored in-line with Heritage NSW guidelines
• Installation of pathway lighting throughout Berridale’s public parks
• Revised approach to creek widening to ensure protection of heritage-listed trees

Mayor Hanna emphasised Council's commitment to continuing the strong community partnership as the Berridale Master Plan progresses, saying ‘The master plan has been strengthened by community input, and we're committed to maintaining this collaborative approach throughout the implementation phase.’

Regular updates will be provided as the project proceeds.

These improvements and additions will provide a sustained boost to the Berridale economy. A rejuvenated and enhanced village centre will encourage more travellers to stop in town and spend more time enjoying local amenities, green space, and patronising local businesses.