Draft Masterplan outlines new jobs for Wagga Wagga
Published: 22 Jul 2020 5:51pm
Wagga Wagga’s Special Activation Precinct (SAP) will create up to 6000 new jobs, target 30-day planning approvals and could be Australia’s first hydrogen powered precinct.
NSW Deputy Premier John Barilaro outlined the draft masterplan for Bomen’s SAP during a visit to ProWay Livestock Equipment. He said the draft plan sets the blueprint for a world class business hub that will drive investment to the region.
“Our plans for the Wagga Wagga precinct include big ideas such as creating a circular economy – where one business’s waste becomes another’s resource – and Australia’s first green hydrogen hub, powered by sustainable energy,” Mr Barilaro said.
“We want to create an employment hub with exceptional design to help Wagga Wagga grow while maintaining its unique, local appeal.”
Mayor of the City of Wagga Wagga Councillor Greg Conkey OAM said this week’s announcement was a significant milestone for the Bomen precinct and shows the State Government’s commitment to the region reaching its full potential.
“The strategic importance Wagga Wagga has in NSW’s ongoing sustainability is evident here today. Our city is punching above its weight for economic development, productivity and liveability,” Cr Conkey said.
“The Special Activation Precinct will provide ongoing employment opportunities for current and future generations.
“It will leverage from the Inland Rail and our Riverina Intermodal Freight and Logistics hub (RiFL) project to reduce freight costs for our regional producers and provide sustainable energy solutions, which provide certainty for business and future investors.”
Cr Conkey thanked the Deputy Premier and Government staff for their commitment to the project, working with the community, business and Council to make this project a reality.
“This partnership will deliver a world class industrial precinct. We have delivered roads, technology, and now we’re finalising designs for the largest inland port on Inland Rail,” he said.
“Wagga Wagga is surging ahead as a regional capital and the benefits of what is happening today will be enjoyed for decades to come.”
The draft masterplan covers 4506 hectares including the existing Bomen Business Park and will be on public exhibition for 56 days, instead of the usual 28-day period, to give people enough time to provide feedback.
Target industries include renewables, sustainability and recycling, advanced manufacturing, value-added agriculture, freight and logistics, which will benefit from fast-tracked planning approvals and access to the Inland Rail.
Paul Gianniotis, Managing Director at ProWay, said the precinct will make it easier for his business to expand and innovate.
“Saving time and money on planning approvals is a huge benefit for businesses like ours that want to invest more, try new ideas, live regionally and do business with the world.”
The Wagga Wagga Special Activation Precinct draft masterplan is open for feedback until 15 September 2020.