A new draft industrial land development strategy will be considered at the Council meeting next Wednesday, June 19.
Director Strategy and Growth Bernie O'Sullivan said the City was working with the Victorian Planning Authority on the Draft Greater Bendigo Industrial Land Development Strategy, which provided a framework to meet the changing needs of businesses and support future job opportunities.
"Greater Bendigo is an important leading hub for major employment and an industrial centre for the broader Loddon Campaspe region," Mr O'Sullivan said.
"With careful planning, the City will seek to zone additional land for industrial purposes, attracting new industries, helping existing businesses grow and supporting more than 3,300 new jobs by 2036.
"The last Industrial Land Strategy was adopted in 2002, but this fresh review will consider changes over this time in technology, skills, training, energy, waste management, freight and logistics as well as Greater Bendigo's vital role in supporting future jobs.
"By improving the function, design and amenity of new and existing industrial areas we can promote sustainable development and attract a wide range of employers that will boost Bendigo's economy.
"Our current industrial land supply is forecast to run out in around 14 years, if all land currently classified as available can be used. However, much of this land is too close to residential development, not well located, or inadequately serviced. Land sizes between one to five hectares will be fully exhausted by 2027 at the latest, which could mean that Greater Bendigo misses out on jobs that will go to other regional cities instead.
"If Council approves the draft strategy, there is an opportunity for the community to provide feedback on how we can plan for and support future jobs. The strategy will also review opportunities at existing industrial precincts across the municipality.
"This new strategy will help to create jobs and strengthen economic development throughout the Loddon Campaspe region."
