FRV Announces the Formation of a Community Consultative Committee (CCC) for Maules Creek Solar Farm
July 10, 2024
FRV is excited to announce it is establishing a Community Consultative Committee (CCC) for the Maules Creek Solar Farm. This initiative is in response to feedback from the Maules Creek community, requesting regular and clear updates whilst the project is being developed.
Margaret Harvie, an independent chairperson, has been appointed to facilitate committee meetings and review nominations.
What is a CCC?
A CCC is a forum that will allow FRV, community representatives, stakeholder groups, and representatives of Narrabri Shire Council to discuss and provide feedback on aspects of the proposed project.
The CCC is not a decision-making or regulatory body. Instead, it serves an advisory and consultative role.
The purpose of the CCC is to:
- build relationships
- encourage information sharing
- provide a regular platform for the community to ask questions and voice concerns; and
- allow FRV to seek feedback on aspects of the project.
While the Department of Planning requires CCCs to be established for some projects like coal mines and wind farms, they have not been required for solar farms. FRV’s establishment of the CCC is voluntary. FRV has established the CCC to provide additional avenues for the community to seek information and provide feedback on the project.
Minutes for CCC meetings will be published on the project’s website, and will also be provided to the NSW Department of Planning.
For more information on Community Consultative Committees, please see the NSW Department of Planning’s website: http://www.planning.nsw.gov.au/assess-and-regulate/development-assessment/community-consultative-committees.
When and Where will the meetings occur?
Meetings will be held in the evening, and no more than once every six weeks during the project’s development phase, unless otherwise agreed.
The frequency of meetings may change, depending on the stage of the project. Any changes will be discussed with committee members.
The location of the meetings is currently being finalised, and we will endeavour to hold meetings as close as possible to the proposed solar farm site. FRV will consider providing a reasonable contribution to fuel or travel expenses for community representatives appointed to the CCC.
How to Get Involved
FRV invites community members to join the newly formed CCC.
To apply, community members should:
- live, work, or own land in the area where the solar farm is proposed to be built
- be able to commit to attend regular meetings; and
- have the means to share information on the project with the local community.
We believe that a diverse range of perspectives will enhance the effectiveness of the CCC, and we encourage local residents and members of stakeholder groups to join.
Participation in the CCC is voluntary, and anyone can apply.
To participate, complete a nomination form and submit it to the independent chair, Margaret Harvie:
Margaret Harvie
Plancom Consulting
PO Box 411, Potts Point, NSW, 2011
Any questions about the CCC can be directed to the independent chair, or FRV at maulescreek@frv.com.
Applications must be received by the independent chairperson by Friday, 26 July 2024.