BALLARAT City Councillor John Philips wants the new Miners Rest saleyard site to get up and running as soon as possible.
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Cr Philips, who has constantly led the push for a site to be named, said it was also important Regional Infrastructure consult with the farmers, vendors, agents and community so the facility is appropriate for a leading regional saleyards.
“It’s great that they have actually identified a site,” Cr Philips said.
“It’s been a long time in the making but it’s here now.
“I would like to see the consultation process get underway as quickly as it can. Regional Infrastructure needs to draw a set of plans and bring them to council as soon as possible.”
Cr Philips said he personally couldn’t wait to see the application on the table.
“Having a regional set of saleyards is only going to enhance the opportunities for Ballarat.
“We’ve waited a long time for today so let’s move it forward.”
Cr Philips said he realised there would be unforeseen delays, but he was still hopeful the saleyards could be built by the end of 2014.
“This is the first step forward.”
Mayor John Burt also welcomed yesterday’s announcement.
He said the council was pleased to work with Palisade and was proud to have secured this private sector investment.
“It is a significant vote of confidence in the role our city has to play as a regional economic centre,” Cr Burt said.
“We look forward to the next phase as Palisade refine their development vision in consultation with the community and the regional saleyards industry.”
Cr Burt said the saleyards was a key driver for the regional agricultural industry, with an annual turnover of more than $160 million in annual sales, supporting the direct employment of 630 people.
He said the new site would result in 126 direct and indirect jobs and have a total economic impact of more than $46 million.