Plans for a A$15 million medicinal cannabis cultivation and processing facility near Bathurst, NSW look set to be approved this week.
A development application for the 6,600 square metre facility was lodged by Better Green founder and CEO Blake O’Sullivan in November 2021.
The Western Advocate reports Bathurst Regional Council will discuss it this week, with a report from the director of environmental, planning and building services recommending consent be granted.
While acknowledging concerns from locals including the impact the development might have on traffic, noise, crime and property prices, the report states: “Having regard to the planning controls that apply to the proposed development, the proposal warrants approval subject to recommended conditions.”
It adds NSW Police had completed a risk assessment and were satisfied the development would not lead to a rise in crime.
If approved, the facility would include a greenhouse, processing building, office and carpark producing around 8,000kg of medicinal cannabis per year.
According to the report: “The finished product is aimed at managing chronic pain, epilepsy and multiple sclerosis as well as pain associated with palliative care. It is expected that once fully operational the facility will employ up to 50 people.”
UPDATE: The plans were unanimously approved by the council on Wednesday, April 20.
