Thursday, 16 August 2018

The Latrobe Valley region is primed to receive hundreds of jobs, thanks to a major retail precinct set for development in Warragul.

Minister for Planning Richard Wynne today announced approval for a zoning change to the Baw Baw Planning Scheme, which will allow the Baw Baw Shire to consider development applications for major retail outlets.

The new precinct on Hazel Drive Warragul could include a department store, bottle shop and restaurant. Council is already in discussions for development of a Kmart, Dan Murphys and Bunnings at the site.

Mr Wynne said the $30 million development will deliver more than 260 full-time ongoing jobs for the area, in addition to 150 construction jobs and potentially more than 300 indirect jobs across the wider community.

The changes were requested by the Baw Baw Shire Council and are supported by the Warragul Business Group.

Baw Baw Shire is one of three municipalities identified within the Victorian Government’s $50 million Economic Growth Zone in the Latrobe Valley region.

The Andrews Labor Government has invested heavily to boost economic growth in the Latrobe Valley, setting up a team to streamline planning systems and fast track projects in Latrobe City Council, Wellington Shire, and Baw Baw Shire.

Businesses seeking to purchase property in the Economic Growth Zone are also eligible for financial incentives, including the reimbursement of fees and charges and stamp duties.

The incentives are part of $266 million package to create local jobs and grow local businesses.

Quotes attributable to Member for Eastern Victoria Region, Harriet Shing

“This is a major development precinct that will secure hundreds of jobs and deliver significant economic growth for the Warragul community.

“The Victorian Government is committed to supporting people and townships within the Latrobe Valley region through our $266 million investment to stimulate economic growth and to see our towns and regional centres reach their full potential and accommodate population growth into the future.”