Greater Shepparton City Council allocated funding to complete a revised detailed design for GV Link, at 250 Toolamba Road in Mooroopna, at the October Council Meeting.
The GV Link project offers potential for Council to establish an industrial precinct and freight hub within the region. To date, investment has not been secured however this project remains a priority for Council given the opportunity for significant job creation and countless flow on effects for the local economy.
A revised detailed design is required as officers are continuing to receive investment enquiries due to GV Link's economic potential, however they are limited by non-current designs which limit avenues for securing investment. Officers aim to simplify the design, reducing the financial burden for investors and enhancing the marketability of the GV Link land.
Mayor, Councillor Shane Sali, said this design revision will confirm potential construction costs and scope and will enable the project to proceed with greater certainty.
"Council commenced investigation into the feasibility of developing an intermodal terminal or inland port in the region 25 years ago, and updated work is now needed to ensure the project's relevance," he said.
"A lot has been done for this project however a lot more is still needed, especially updated detailed designs due to the changing landscape, freight and industrial needs.
"There is no doubt that the economic impacts in relation to this project are significant and therefore Council understands that updated designs are required to ensure its success. The project creates the potential for large scale operators to function in close proximity and access rail to ensure efficient processes."
It is anticipated that revised detailed design may cost around $500,000. Recent land valuations have also been undertaken which will make the project more feasible.
"This work that we will now undertake enables Council to respond quickly to any investment enquiry, providing options to proceed to the sale of Council land and provide certainty on the delivery timeframe for the works," Cr Sali said.
"We look forward to seeing work progressing on GV Link and taking the next steps forward for the project's success."
