Community feedback is invited on a new draft policy for stock grids and gates on Armidale Regional Council public roads.
The policy brings consistency in the provision of new and existing gates and stock grids on public roads throughout the Armidale Regional Council area.
"It harmonises the conditions and responsibilities of Council and landholders, including costs, by addressing disparities between the policies of the former Armidale Dumaresq and Guyra Shire councils," Armidale Regional Council Acting General Manager John Rayner said.
Council's December Ordinary Meeting resolved to put the draft policy on exhibition until Monday 1 March 2020, to give rural landholders and other community members plenty of time to view the draft and provide input.
"Council has a primary responsibility for the provision and maintenance of Council public roads, which are there for the benefit of everyone," Mr Rayner said.
"It recognises that for additional infrastructure on road reserves, such as stock grids and gates, the cost needs to be borne by the beneficiaries of that infrastructure. However, the policy aims to ensure the provision of stock grids and gates is fair and equitable for the community and landholders.
"The policy also aims to ensure the structures are safe for road users and do not unduly impede traffic."
He said Council liaised with NSW Farmers members to help finalise the draft policy and is endeavouring to contact landholders to with stock grids and gates on or adjacent to their properties to invite input.
The policy also outlines:
- when a landowner can get a permit for a gate of stock grid on an Armidale Regional Council road
- maintenance responsibilities for gates and stock grids and the adjoining road
- Council inspections of gates and stock grids on public roads
- When a stock grid or gate will be removed if a permit holder cannot be identified
