NSW Government releases draft master plan for world class business precinct in Parkes
NSW’s first Special Activation Precinct in Parkes will create up to 3,000 new jobs, deliver fast-tracked planning, and prioritise the environment, as outlined in the draft master plan released today.
Laying the foundation for a world class business precinct, the draft master plan proposes how land should be used across 4,800 hectares, what businesses could exist and operate there, and how an eco-industrial hub can be established and thrive. The plan is now on public exhibition and is open for community feedback until 20 October 2019.
Deputy Premier and Minister for Regional NSW John Barilaro said the Special Activation Precinct is going to be a game changer for Parkes and demonstrate how businesses can work together to create an efficient industrial park, cooperate to reduce waste, pollution and efficiently share resources.
“This draft master plan outlines how the Parkes Special Activation Precinct will generate business and employment growth offered by its location at one of the key freight crossroads of Australia,” Mr Barilaro said.
“The Precinct will take advantage of the opportunities presented by the Inland Rail and the Parkes National Logistics Hub, and better connect investors and producers of the central west region to eighty per cent of Australia’s population, and directly to major ports.
“It’s going to create more jobs, attract businesses and investors with streamlined approval processes, and fuel economic development in regional NSW.
“Businesses already invested in the Parkes Precinct include Pacific National, SCT Logistics, Linfox, Westlime, Neoen Parkes Solar farm and ARTC.
“We value the community’s input and will continue to work with them during the consultation period to get their feedback on the draft master plan,” he said.
Parkes Shire Councillor Barbara Newton said this important development is going to help Parkes reach its full potential as an inland port, and freight and logistics hub.
On exhibition at the same time is an Explanation of Intended Effect (EIE) on a proposed new Activation Precincts State Environmental Planning Policy (SEPP), which is a new planning framework to streamline approval processes for investors. This is also open for community feedback until 20 October 2019.
To have your say on the Parkes Special Activation Precinct draft master plan and EIE, visit https://www.planningportal.nsw.gov.au/exhibition.
Special Activation Precincts are delivered by the $4.2 billion Snowy Hydro Legacy Fund, and are part of the NSW Government’s 20-Year Economic Vision for Regional NSW.