The Andrews Labor Government is backing the Rural City of Wangaratta’s plans to revitalise the railway precinct and central business district with $2.5 million to create a better gateway into town and generate new jobs.
In Wangaratta today, Minister for Regional Development Jaala Pulford announced the Labor Government’s funding towards the $5 million Wangaratta Gateway Precinct project.
The project will improve public spaces, upgrade roads and pathways, and better connect the railway precinct with the rest of the city, which will provide flow on benefits to shops and cafes in the centre of town.
The Labor Government’s investment has helped secure two private investments that will inject around $20 million into the regional economy and create up to 70 jobs.
It will support three distinct projects:
- Upgrades to the train station entrance with new pathways, landscaping, new road pavements, street lighting and furniture, bike hoops, and a new artwork on a disused water tower
- Upgrades to Norton Street, including a new pedestrian crossing, landscaping, pathways, parking reconfiguration, new road pavements, and installation of new street furniture and lighting
- Upgrades to Docker Street including a new shared path linking Norton Street to the CBD, parking reconfiguration, and installation of new street furniture.
Over the course of construction, the project will support nine jobs and once complete, the improved links to the CBD will result in an estimated increase in annual retail turnover of $1.6 million.
The improvements will benefit the growing number of people passing through Wangaratta railway station as a result of the Government’s $235 million investment in the North East rail line upgrade.
The project is funded by the $500 million Regional Jobs and Infrastructure Fund, which supports initiatives right across the state that make regional Victoria a better place to live, work and invest.
Quotes attributable to Minister for Regional Development Jaala Pulford
“We’re proud to support Wangaratta to deliver this project, which will boost economic activity, create new jobs and make the city better for locals and visitors.”
“This great project has been a local priority for some time and we’re delighted to help make this a reality.”
Quote attributable to Member for Northern Victoria Jaclyn Symes
“The Wangaratta Gateway Precinct project will unlock opportunities for commercial development and transform the precinct into a vibrant pedestrian-friendly destination.”
Reviewed 19 August 2020