The business owners and residents attended a community engagement session conducted by the Northern Grampians Shire Council, to discuss the Western Stawell Business Precinct Master Plan. 

Participants were given an opportunity to provide their thoughts and comments on the industrial zoned land at the western edge of Stawell and share their ideas for future development. 

Mayor Cr Kevin Erwin said several topics were discussed during the session, including access to the Western Highway, rail linkages, investment attraction, land zoning, flooding and the amenity of the precinct. 

"It was great to see business representatives and community members contribute ideas and thoughts on the options presented," he said. 

"Some interesting ideas were put forth and these will be explored over the coming weeks and months." 

Cr Erwin said the session was conducted in a workshop style format, with a council representative on each table taking notes as community members provided their input.

"It was a great opportunity for council to hear the different ideas people have for this area of town, which will help with the development of a master plan to capitalise on the opportunities identified," Cr Erwin said.

Cr Erwin said the community would have further opportunities to comment on the work being undertaken and contribute to the master plan's development. 

"We are planning to hold another community engagement session in November. This will give people a chance to look at the work that is being done by the consultants and provide any additional comments or ideas," he said. 

The area being investigated as part of the Western Stawell Business Precinct Master Plan is approximately 200 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 the range of development potential within the Western Stawell Precinct was vast.

The plan aims to guide sustainable business development and help to create employment opportunities, a diverse economic base and improved infrastructure and transport logistics. It will also provide for the future expansion of existing businesses and new business investment, through the extension of existing utility services like water, gas and power.

"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," Cr Erwin said.

The Victorian Government has contributed $150,000 to the Western Stawell Business Precinct Master Plan through the Regional Growth Fund. 

For general project enquiries contact Amanda Western, Leader Strategic Projects, on 5358 8700 or emailamanda.western@ngshire.vic.gov.au