NORTHERN Grampians Shire Council is seeking input from the community in relation to the future use and development of the Western Highway.
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Council is asking community members to participate in the development of a master plan for the business area of western Stawell.
A community engagement session for the Western Stawell Business Precinct Master Plan has been planned for Monday, August 18 in the Stawell Town Hall foyer from 6.30pm until 8.30pm.
Mayor, Cr Kevin Erwin said the session would give council an opportunity to brief the community on the project and seek initial thoughts and comments on the precinct area and possible opportunities.
"After a short summary of the main issues and existing conditions of the precinct, we will be inviting the community to ask questions and offer their opinions on how the precinct could be developed," he said.
"The session will be conducted in a workshop style format, with a council representative on each table taking notes.
"We are really looking forward to hearing the different ideas people have for this area of town, which will help us develop a master plan to capitalise on the opportunities identified."
The area being investigated as part of the Western Stawell Business Precinct Master Plan is approximately 60 hectares and contains private and public land, the existing industrial precinct and surrounding vacant land on the Western Highway, from the town border to Playford Street.
Cr Erwin said it would include areas such as the former Pleasant Creek site and also Frewstal abattoir.
"It's a substantial area of land that we are talking about," he said.
"There is vacant land along that section of the precinct, it will include Pleasant Creek and right through to Frews, so it's a vast and diverse area."
Cr Erwin said the plan would guide sustainable business development and help to create employment opportunities, a diverse economic base and improved infrastructure and transport logistics.
"The master plan will provide for the future expansion of existing businesses, and new business investment, through the extension of existing utility services like water, gas and power," he said.
"In addition to staging new infrastructure and development, the project will enhance the amenity of the precinct, particularly along the Western Highway, which is often the first impression people get of our township."
Members of he public wishing to attend the community engagement session on Monday, August 18 will need to RSVP. To register your attendance, contact Meg Newton on 5358 8732 or email meg.newton@ngshire.vic.gov.au.
For general project enquiries contact Amanda Western, Leader Strategic Projects, on 5358 8700 or email amanda.western@ngshire.vic.gov.au