URGENT UPDATE: Tamworth Councillor Charles Impey is making headlines with his ambitious roadmap for 2026, focusing on critical community needs. Just announced, the mental health summit will take place this Thursday, marking a significant step toward enhancing mental wellness in the region.
Impey emphasizes the importance of mental health for community prosperity, stating, “If our community is in a good mental health space, we’ve got a better chance of thriving and flourishing.” This summit is not a typical council initiative, showcasing Impey’s commitment as a community leader.
In addition to the mental health summit, Impey looks forward to the opening of the new Banksia Mental Health Unit. He believes this facility will serve as a “blank canvas” for establishing a drug and alcohol rehabilitation center, addressing urgent community needs. “I think a drug and alcohol rehabilitation centre in this part of the world would be an absolute given,” he asserted.
Impey is also focused on education, advocating for the University of New England (UNE) Tamworth campus to “forge ahead,” after years of anticipation. He aims to boost housing accessibility, citing last year’s council decision to lower headworks pricing as a catalyst for development in the Tamworth local government area.
Social housing remains a priority for Impey, who stated, “We are looking after not only those who are flourishing in our community, but those who are struggling as well.” This initiative aims to foster a more inclusive community as housing challenges persist.
Transport improvements are also on Impey’s agenda. He envisions constructing more shared cycleways to enhance safety for pedestrians and cyclists on dangerous routes like Moore Creek Road. More ambitiously, he plans to explore the potential of utilizing existing rail links for a local rail service connecting Duri, Kootingal, Nemingha, and other areas, proposing a “one or two carriage service” to enhance mobility.
Impey is advocating for significant infrastructure changes, including a series of bypasses to alleviate traffic congestion in Tamworth. He envisions a route that would connect the New England Highway to Oxley to Manilla Road, enhancing connectivity across the region. “I think there’s a real opportunity,” he stated, acknowledging the geographical challenges posed by the surrounding mountains.
As these ambitious plans unfold, community members are urged to engage in discussions about Tamworth’s future. Impey’s proposals highlight a critical moment for the city, aiming to create a thriving environment for all residents.
Stay tuned for updates as Cr. Impey brings these vital initiatives to the forefront, shaping the future of Tamworth in 2026 and beyond.
