The land identified as Lot 610 faces the Forbes Road and runs along Henderson Street.

Mr Kent Boyd (Council’s General Manager) said Council faced a lengthy process of securing the block of land.

“To acquire the land Council will need to undergo the Land Acquisition Just Terms Compensation process which includes approval from the Crown and Department of Local Government,” he said.

“The compensation amount to paid by Council when purchasing the land would be based on market valuation at the time.”

Mr Boyd said there was no certainty Council will be successful with its application.

“If Council is interested in the land this is the incremental step we must go through if we wish to further advance the site to a health and well-being precinct.

Deputy Mayor Cr Alan Ward enquired about the price associated with the purchase of the land.

He was advised this would first have to be determined by the Valuer-General’s Department.

“The land would certainly provide for the future of the health precinct. The price aspect would need to be pursued when it comes up I suppose,” Cr Ward said.

Cr Barbara Newton supported the proposal.

“I think it’s a great idea because in hindsight this town has suffered somewhat through the lack of vision of our forefathers in regards to growth,” Cr Newton said.

After the meeting Mayor Cr Ken Keith OAM said the potential acquisition of the land will mean that there is a long term plan to continue the health and wellness precinct surrounding the hospital.

“The land in the future may be used for a range of services including health services and accommodation for patients families and visiting specialists, he said.”

At the most recent Parkes Shire Council meeting, Councillors unanimously approved three recommendations from Mr Boyd to proceed with the necessary application process.