UPDATE: Tamworth Councillor Charles Impey is making headlines as he announces a bold roadmap for the community’s future, focusing on urgent mental health initiatives and transformative transport plans. Just days before the highly anticipated mental health summit scheduled for Thursday, Impey emphasizes the critical need for mental well-being in fostering a thriving community.
Impey insists that mental health is not traditionally a council focus but is essential for community resilience. “If our community is in a good mental health space, we’ve got a better chance of thriving and flourishing,” he stated. The upcoming summit aims to address these pressing concerns head-on.
In addition to mental health, the opening of the new Banksia Mental Health Unit is a significant milestone. Impey is advocating for the old unit to be repurposed as a rehabilitation facility, specifically a drug and alcohol rehabilitation center. “I think it’s an absolute given for this part of the world,” he added, highlighting the urgent need for such resources.
On the educational front, Impey is eager for the University of New England (UNE) Tamworth campus to “forge ahead,” a development he believes has been long overdue. He also aims to tackle housing affordability, advocating for increased access to the housing market through revised headworks pricing. “We need to look after not only those who are flourishing in our community but also those who are struggling,” he noted.
Transport safety is another priority for Impey. He pointed out the dangers posed to pedestrians and cyclists on Moore Creek Road, calling for the construction of more shared cycleways. His vision extends beyond safety; he proposes utilizing existing rail links for a local service connecting areas like Duri, Kootingal, and Nemingha. “I think there’s merit to that; I’ll do some research and bring it to the discussion table,” he said.
The councillor’s aspirations don’t stop there. Impey is pushing for significant infrastructure improvements, including a series of bypasses to alleviate traffic congestion in Tamworth. “We need a series of bypasses that would loop around from the New England Highway to the Oxley to Manilla Road,” he emphasized. While he acknowledges the challenges posed by the surrounding mountains, he believes a 270-degree ring road is feasible.
As the community gears up for these transformative changes, Impey’s roadmap outlines a vision that prioritizes mental health, accessibility, and sustainable development. His commitment to these initiatives aims to not only enhance the quality of life for Tamworth residents but also to foster a more inclusive and vibrant community.
NEXT STEPS: Residents are urged to participate in the upcoming mental health summit, where key issues will be discussed. Impey’s plans will be closely monitored as the council prepares to implement these urgent strategies in the coming months. The success of these initiatives could reshape Tamworth’s future, making it a model for other regions seeking similar improvements.
Stay tuned for more updates as these developments unfold.
