NEW PROJECTIONS CONFIRM TAMWORTH WILL CONTINUE TO GROW

The population of Tamworth will continue grow over the next two decades, with new data from the NSW Government showing almost 8,000 more people will call the area home by 2041. 

Member for Tamworth, Kevin Anderson said the 2019 NSW Population Projections show Tamworth is expected to grow from 61,000 people in 2016 to 68,900 people in 2041.

“These latest projections show Tamworth will remain a dominant regional centre and key to the economic success of regional NSW, but we have to be ready with our important infrastructure, especially water.

“First we have to fix our water problems and I’m pleased to say there is investment in projects like the Dungowan Dam and pipeline.

“We absolutely have to have the services as any growth needs to be managed and sustainable.

“There has been significant investment in Tamworth such as the drought-proofing Dungowan Dam replacement and emergency Chaffey Dam pipeline, the Tamworth Intermodal Freight Hub, the hospital, school upgrades and improved traffic flow across important routes like Manilla Road and across the Peel River into Jewry Street. 

“I’m a firm believer in ‘build it and they will come’ and again we must have our water supply right.

“I do not want to our city and surrounds in this predicament ever again.

“The NSW Government has already anticipated this growth, with its vision-led planning providing the guidance to ensure adequate infrastructure, housing and services for people looking to live, work and play in this enviable part of the world,” Mr Anderson concluded.

Planning and Public Spaces Minister Rob Stokes said NSW is leading the way in strategic planning in Australia with comprehensive plans in place for every corner of the State.

“These population projections will help shape planning decisions now and into the future in Tamworth in line with the New England North West Regional Plan 2036 - our 20-year vision for the region.”

For more information on the 2019 NSW Population Projections, visit: www.planning.nsw.gov.au/populationprojections 

FAST FACTS

The projections also reveal strong growth in the number of people 65 or older living in Tamworth; by 2041 there will be 5,000 more, older people than there were in 2016.   

Couples with children will grow in the region from 6,750 in 2016 to 7,400 in 2041, and it’s estimated more than 750 babies will be born each year over the same period.