The NSW Government today committed a further $185.4 million to drive economic growth and prosperity in the Central West through the Parkes Special Activation Precinct.
Deputy Premier John Barilaro joined the Honourable Sam Farraway MLC in Parkes today to announce the second stage of the funding, which follows the finalisation of the precinct master plan and technical studies.
“I am really excited to be here today and to see the vision for the Parkes Special Activation Precinct coming to fruition,” Mr Barilaro said.
“This $185 million investment will kick-off the delivery of the precinct and fund vital infrastructure – including roads, sewer and water connections – which will make it easier and more attractive for businesses to set up in Parkes.
The precinct capitalises on Parkes’ location – at the junction of Australia’s two major rail spines – and lower land costs which are just 5% of those in major metropolitan areas.
“This precinct is all about attracting money, economic growth and jobs to regional NSW.
“We know that where there is significant government investment, it attracts private investment ten-fold. This precinct could attract up to $1 billion in private investment over the next 10 years.”
With the master plan now complete, Regional Growth NSW Development Corporation will take on delivery of the precinct. This will include leading design and construction, streamlined applications and approvals and providing a business concierge service aimed at assisting those seeking to set up or expand in the regions.
Mr Farraway said the Parkes precinct covers 4800 hectares of land which is ear-marked for a range of uses including freight and logistics, proceesing of food such as plant based proteins, warehousing, plastic and e-waste recycling and cold chain storage.
“This precinct will support growth not only in Parkes but also for businesses across the Central West,” Mr Farraway said.
The precinct will focus on sustainability and will be Australia’s first UNIDO Eco Industrial zone.
Special Activation Precincts are part of the $4.2 billion Snowy Hydro Legacy Fund, dedicated to major and transformative infrastructure projects that will benefit regional NSW.
Visit Regional Growth Development Corporation for more information.
