After almost a decade of tussle, the Eurobodalla Shire's rural lands strategy has gained the final state government tick of approval.
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Overhauling the Local Environment Plan began almost 10 years ago and saw protestors from both sides crowd the chamber or streets at different times.
In Moruya on Friday, October 11, Bega MP Andrew Constance and Mayor Liz Innes welcomed the adoption of the strategy.
"The NSW Government has approved changes to Eurobodalla's local planning rules to provide certainty and opportunity for farmers, landholders and businesses; while continuing to protect native flora and fauna," their joint statement said.
In 2011, angry farmers and property owners gathered at the chamber to denounce "green" restrictions in the planned new LEP. Cr Innes was one of four councillors elected in 2012 on that backlash and went on four years later to become mayor.
However, in 2018 and 2019, it was a different group of protestors denouncing a revised LEP they said did not protect the environment.
One oyster farmer was a fierce critic, but others said they had "full faith" after negotiations.
On Friday, Mr Constance said the strategy set out a 20-year vision.
"The Rural Lands Strategy is a fantastic result for our entire region and I thank Mayor Liz Innes and the Rural Lands Committee, along with our community for bringing about this fantastic result for Eurobodalla," he said.
"Changes have been made to planning controls, such as zoning, land uses and lot sizes to encourage a vibrant commercial agriculture sector, increase rural living opportunities and support the growth of rural business opportunities.
Cr Innes said the adoption was "great news for the Eurobodalla".
"I am looking forward to seeing us reach our economic potential as we now have greater opportunity for rural producers to map our region as an amazing food tourism destination," Cr Innes said.
"This approval is the culmination of years of consultation and strategic planning."
She said it would "improve opportunities for farmers, businesses, landowners and visitors, whilst protecting what we love most about our shire".
"With 83 beaches, four major river systems and lakes and more than 80 per cent of land covered by national parks or state forest, our natural beauty has been always been the centre of the deliberation on these changes," Ms Innes said.
Mr Constance said "development will still go through the same rigorous assessment process it always has".
