FAQs

The Masterplan is a high-level strategic framework focusing on the enhancement and development of a 10km stretch of Farmers Creek. The Masterplan details how Council will manage Farmers Creek, our goals and actions and the staging of works.

The Riparian Corridor Management lan is a fine detail, specific vegetation management plan focusing on weed control and biodiversity outcomes. The plan details how council will perform revegetation, habitat restoration methods and invasive species control. The plan also lists native species for planting in the creek and weed control techniques.

The plans cover the 10km stretch of Farmers Creek within the Lithgow urban area from the Oakey Park water treatment plant to the Great Western Highway.

The Masterplan divides the Farmers Creek corridor into three major zones;

  Eastern Upstream Environmental Zone – Oakey Park water treatment plant in the east to the State Mine rail line and Drurie Street in the west.

  Central Urban Recreation and Open Space Zone - State Mine rail line and Drurie Street in the east to the Lithgow Tourism Information Centre and nearby Geordie Street causeway in the west, and including the Lake Pillans Wetlands (on the Vale of Clwydd Creek) and Blast Furnace Park

  Western Heritage Zone - North-west from the Geordie Street causeway and nearby Lithgow Tourism Information Centre in the east, to the Great Western Highway in the west, including the Creek’s passage under the Main Western Rail Line.

Since its adoption in 2017, key stages of the Masterplan have been delivered, including shared pathway networks, environmental and infrastructure works, and revegetation across the corridor. However, flood and bushfire impacts, along with other infrastructure upgrades, mean updates are now needed to reflect progress, assess damage, and guide future conservation and capital works.

Our community is also continually growing and evolving, this community consultation allows us to ensure that the plans are still a shared vision with the residents of Lithgow.

Yes, the draft report will be updated and finalised with the results of community consultation.

The visions for Farmers Creek is to become a valued, enjoyed and well managed asset of which Lithgow and the greater community will be justifiably proud. A healthy creek benefits all.

Once finalised the plans will be implemented in stages over the next five years.