After receiving more than 50 unique submissions objecting to the Bowmans Creek Wind Farm application during the public exhibition of its environmental impact statement (EIS), the NSW Department of Planning and Environment (DPE) has referred it to the NSW Independent Planning Commission (IPC) for determination.​

The IPC is separate to the DPE and makes independent and objective decisions on state significant development applications in certain circumstances. It is now the determining authority for the Bowmans Creek Wind Farm development application. ​

After making its own assessment, DPE has recommended that the IPC grant development consent, subject to the conditions specified in DPE’s recommendation.​

In assessing the merits of the project, DPE considered the environmental, social and economic impacts, submissions on the EIS, relevant environmental planning instruments, suitability of the site, and the public interest, in accordance with the requirements of the Environmental Planning and Assessment Act 1979. ​

During the assessment process DPE also visited the site, and consulted with local residents, involved Councils and relevant government agencies.​

As part of the IPC process interested community members have the opportunity to make a submission and attend a public meeting in Muswellbrook at 2pm, Thursday 7 December 2023 (and Friday 8 December if required)​, Atherstone Room, Upper Hunter Conservatorium of Music, ​Level 1/80 Bridge St, Muswellbrook, NSW 2333. ​

Anyone wishing to present at the public meeting must pre-register on the IPC website. ​

Further details including dates, the submission portal and public meeting speaker registration form are available from the Bowmans Creek Wind Farm page on the IPC website

The project’s documentation including the EIS reports, submissions on the EIS, Ark Energy’s response to submissions, DPE’s IPC referral letter, Assessment Report and recommendation for Development Consent are available from the Bowmans Creek Wind Farm page in the NSW Government’s Major Planning Portal.

Download the Bowmans Creek Wind Farm Update - November 2023