The NSW Department of Arts, Sport and Recreation last year announced plans for an open fairway rifle range, a pistol range and a shotgun range on 1000 hectares excised from the Bargo State Conservation Area at Hill Top.

The complex would be used initially by seven regional clubs, including those that have not had ranges of their own for several years, and others whose range leases expire soon.

A 200m x 80m rifle and pistol shooting range was added to the proposal in April, 2007.

In August, the department sought to further amend the proposal to include an indoor pistol range and a 180-space car park.

The Department of Arts, Sport and Recreation also plans to expand the width of the first pistol range from 100m to 140m for safety reasons.

Hill Top Residents’ Action Group spokeswoman Jodie Laing said the extensions only came to light a week ago when local residents found the preliminary assessments lodged with the minister for planning on August 22 on the Department of Planning website.

Ms Laing said in addition to the shooting ranges, the complex would include “support facilities” yet to be described and will operate seven days a week including nights.

Full story: SHN, Wednesday, September 26