On Friday 14 May, Minister for Regional Development the Hon. Mary-Anne Thomas announced a new stormwater infrastructure project at the Bannockburn Industrial Estate, joined by Golden Plains Shire Mayor Cr Helena Kirby.
The $3.1 million project will be funded by a $2 million grant from the Victorian Government’s Regional Infrastructure Fund, as announced by Minister Thomas, with $1.1 million investment by the landowner, Josco Pty Ltd.
Currently, the Bannockburn Industrial Estate on Holder Road is home to local businesses in 35 lots across 12 hectares including a gym and self-storage units. Land in the light industrial precinct is in demand however expansion is not possible at present, due to the lack of drainage infrastructure to service the adjoining land.
The newly-announced project will deliver the construction of a retarding basin and pipe network to manage the stormwater on the surrounding parcels owned by Josco Pty Ltd, unlocking an additional 21.7 hectares of adjoining land for the next stage of the Bannockburn Industrial Estate.
Mayor Cr Helena Kirby says the new stormwater infrastructure project is the key to making more industrial land available to businesses in the Shire’s largest town.
“The development of the Bannockburn Industrial Estate is critical to growing the local economy in Bannockburn and today’s announcement of the $3.1 million stormwater infrastructure project makes this plan a reality.
“With Council and the VPA finalising the Bannockburn Growth Plan for development in Bannockburn south, the town and the local economy are thriving. As a Council, we are very keen to ensure that we keep Bannockburn businesses and jobs right here – and that we attract new businesses to set up shop and employ local people.
“Today’s stormwater infrastructure announcement is a wonderful example of the Victorian Government and local investors partnering to deliver a valuable project for the business community of Golden Plains Shire; and Council is proud to support this great investment.
“With this new infrastructure to manage the stormwater, it will now be possible to develop the next stage of the estate and open up 21.7 hectares to welcome new businesses, support business expansion and attract new jobs for residents to work and live in Golden Plains Shire.”
The Bannockburn Growth Plan (BGP) will deliver 6,000 additional homes – and more than 18,000 new residents – in the south of the town, significantly increasing the population of the Golden Plains Shire.
Works on the stormwater infrastructure project are scheduled to be completed in 2022.
Pictured left to right: Mayor Cr Helena Kirby, Minister Mary-Anne Thomas and John O’Shannessy, Director of Josco Pty Ltd.