QUEANBEYAN council will enter negotiations for compensation following the compulsory acquisition of land to build Bungendore’s new high school.

Although council pulled the plug on its previous support for the high school’s proposed site – on Bungendore Park, Turallo Reserve and on council freehold land along Majara Street – the NSW Department of Education is progressing with the project with the compulsory acquisition of the land needed to build the school now complete.

Due to open in 2023, Bungendore’s high school is expected to cater for 500 students, and has been long-called for by the community.

According to a statement issued by QPRC, council is entitled to compensation for the loss of the land and buildings acquired by the education department, and for costs associated with moving council services from its current locations.

“Importantly, council is now in a position to negotiate with the Department of Education about items that were not included in the current compensation process; which includes the Majara Road Reserve and the Library,” the statement reads.

“Council will also negotiate for shared use of Mick Sherd Oval by the high school for their sporting activities, if and when required, ensuring that access for sporting clubs and recreational user groups is maintained.”

A development application for the construction of a proposed new administration building in Gibraltar Street will also be prepared by council.