State $2m to boost Bannockburn’s industrial potential

DEVELOPMENT potential for 268.5 hectares of industrial land will be unlocked by the state government after it promised $2m for infrastructure.

Critical drainage, a retarding basin and pump system, and earthworks for a 1.7km drain will be completed at the

Bannockburn South West industrial estate near Bannockburn-Shelford Road via the spend.

The project, slated to create jobs for five full-time equivalent staff during construction, is expected to be completed by the middle of next year.

“The development of Bannockburn South West industrial estate will support the town’s ongoing economic prosperity, and we are delighted to invest in this important project,” Western Victoria MP Gayle Tierney said.

Regional Development Minister Mary-Anne Thomas said the government was working to “make all our communities” even better places in which to live, work, visit and invest, “whether you’re in a small country town or a bustling regional city”.

The government is currently consulting on the Bannockburn Growth Plan, due to apply until 2050.

A Victoria Planning Authority (VPA) report after three months of public consultation on the plan last year, noted there were objections to the planned industrial expansion based on “impact on existing residents, including noise pollution, air pollution and increased heavy vehicle traffic”.

“Several submissions suggested alternative locations for the industrial area” it noted.

The development of the Bannockburn Growth Plan is due to be completed by June.