In recent years, the Central West and Orana region has become much sought-after and is proving to be an attractive alternative to Sydney for families and businesses, with the region increasingly being recognised for its picturesque natural landscapes, vibrant regional cities and centres, historic towns and villages, community festivals and events, and diverse communities.
By 2041, the region’s population is expected to increase to more than 306,000 people, who will primarily live in the regional cities of Bathurst, Orange and Dubbo, the strategic centres of Lithgow, Mudgee and Cowra, and the twin centres of Parkes and Forbes, according to the Draft Central West and Orana Regional Plan 2041. To put this growth into perspective, the Central Coast currently has a population of 346,596 people, followed by the Illawarra with a population of 313,842 people.
On top of this expected population growth, the Central West and Orana region has a diverse economy on the cusp of unprecedented growth, spurred on by major investments in the Inland Rail, Central-West Orana Renewable Energy Zone (REZ), and the Parkes Special Activation Precinct.
The region’s location and varied landscapes support a diverse and productive economy, with improved transport connections to Sydney, Canberra, and Newcastle, alongside the Melbourne and Brisbane Inland Rail, providing both capacity and connectivity for the growing region.
The Inland Rail is set to transform how freight is transported across the country by connecting regional Australia to domestic and international markets. Images sourced via ARTC.
According to Minister for Infrastructure Rob Stokes, the region is set to soar with $12.6 billion in public and private investment in major infrastructure projects to support the region’s economic growth, and improve the amenity for the local communities.
This includes significant investment in roads, rail networks, and telecommunications to help boost opportunities for agribusiness, manufacturing, renewable energy, and tourism sectors. Furthermore, investment in roads and logistics facilities are expected to provide a more efficient network and will help establish the region as a nationally significant freight hub.
In particular, the Central West and Orana region has significant renewable energy potential, with the area’s location and climate making it ideal for utilising renewable energy with the development of solar energy in the west, and wind farming in the east.
The region is already charging ahead in this sector, with the establishment of the Central-West Orana REZ expected to help transition the state’s electricity sector into one that is cheap, clean, and reliable, as well as attracting $5.2 billion in private investment to the region by 2030 and creating new 4,400 jobs, according to the Draft Central West and Orana Regional Plan 2041.
Our Involvement in the Region
To support the expected growth in the Central West and Orana region, we have been involved in numerous infrastructure projects for Local and State Governments and property developers, and work collaboratively alongside our clients to help deliver high-quality infrastructure and create stronger communities. Some of the projects we have recently been involved in are listed below.
TfNSW Northern Distributer Road Roundabout, Orange
We were engaged by Orange City Council for the provision of civil engineering design, surveying, and town planning services required for the construction of a new roundabout at the intersection of The Escort Way, Northern Distributor Road and Ploughmans Lane.
The proposed infrastructure upgrade will include the realignment of Ploughmans Lane to meet the intersection of Northern Distributor Road and Escort Way, allowing for the construction of a four-leg roundabout. In future, Ploughmans Lane will link the Southern Feeder Road to the Northern Distributor Road, completing the orbital loop around Orange.
Inland Rail Level Crossing, Parkes
We were engaged by the Australian Rail Track Corporation (ARTC) for the provision of independent verification services for the reconstruction of the level crossing at Henry Parkes Way, which forms part of the larger 1700km Inland Rail project, and is set to complete our national freight network by connecting Melbourne and Brisbane via regional Victoria, New South Wales, and Queensland.
We provided independent verification services for works on TfNSW assets including the level crossing and associated drainage culvert related to the Inland Rail works near Parkes.
We have also been selected by the ARTC as one of only eight panel members for Independent Verifier services associated with the Inland Rail Project, and are proud to be involved in this landmark infrastructure project which will bring significant long-term benefits to Australia.
Southern Feeder Road Upgrade, Orange
We were engaged by Orange City Council for the provision of engineering services including a design review, road safety audit and finalising the design documentation associated with Stage 4 of the Southern Feeder Road upgrade.
Stage 4 of the project will cover approximately 2.6km of road between Anson Street west and Pinnacle Road, including the upgrade of Park and Shiralee Roads and the construction of approximately 1.2km of new road.
Once complete, the Southern Feeder Road will be a major transport link around the southern portion of Orange, providing a vital connection between the major highways into Orange.
Need Assistance with an Upcoming Development in the Region?
Backed by a wealth of local experience, Barker Ryan Stewart is well-resourced and positioned to assist in providing our full range of services for your next project in the Central West and Orana region.
If you have any questions about how we can assist with your development, please don’t hesitate to get in touch.
