In a notice of motion for Wednesday’s meeting Cr Thompson said “there are plenty of other sites in Australia that a nuclear waste dump can be better placed well away from residents”. 

The village, 87 kilometres from Mudgee, is one of six sites shortlisted to house the facility including Cortlinye, Pinkawillinie and Barndioota (South Australia), Hale (Northern Territory) and Oman Ama (Queensland). 

Council has until March next year to make a submission on the proposal. 

General manager Brad Cam said “at this moment, information is limited and we will be making a submission at the appropriate time.” 

Speaking to the Guardian shortly after the announcement mayor Des Kennedy said council staff were in talks with their Bathurst counter parts. 

“Mid-Western Regional Council has already liaised with Bathurst Regional Council about the issue, and I personally have spoken to Sallys Flat residents and adjoining land owners of the site,” Cr Kennedy said.

“Mid-Western Regional Council is planning on making a submission to the Department of Industry, Innovation and Science in response to the announcement of a site at Sallys Flat being assessed as suitable for a national radioactive waste management facility.

“We will continue to be updated on the proposal over coming weeks and as always, will be representing our residents and lobbying on their behalf.”

Sallys Flat and neighbouring Hill End are part of the Bathurst Regional Council Local Government Area.