Member for Franklin Julie Collins has announced more than $4 million in Albanese Government funding for the Huonville Reimagined: Crafting a Future Huonville project — a major initiative set to transform the town and strengthen the Huon Valley community.
This is one of 15 new projects that have been announced across Australia through the latest round of the Albanese Government’s $400 million regional Precincts and Partnerships Program (rPPP).
rPPP is supporting transformative investment in regional, rural and remote areas based on the principles of unifying regional places, growing economies and serving communities.
In this latest round, Huon Valley Council will receive $4.69 million for the Huonville Reimagined: Crafting a future Huonville project.
Huon Valley Council Mayor Sally Doyle said the funding was transformational for the region. “This funding is a once in a generation opportunity that allows Council to undertake coordinated precinct planning at a scale and pace that we could not fund on our own”.
“It will help us build on Huonville’s popularity, welcome new residents and create economic opportunities while respecting our existing residents and our unique character, heritage and natural values.”
The Council will develop a business case and master plan for five precincts to transform Huonville into a contemporary, vibrant and resilient regional town:
- Huonville Recreational and Educational Precinct,
- Glen Road Light Industrial Precinct,
- Huon Link Residential Development Precinct,
- Activated Foreshore and Mixed Use Precinct, and
- Hansens Orchard Potential Opportunity Area.
“The Huon Valley is a rapidly growing region and plays a crucial role in Tasmania’s economy,” Julie Collins MP said. “This funding allows the Huon Valley Council to start planning for new economic opportunities, helping to secure the communities future as a thriving regional centre.
“I have fought hard for this investment, and I’m proud to be part of a Government that is delivering for the Huon Valley.”
The Minister for Regional Development and Local Government, Kristy McBain MP said “the Albanese Government is committed to investing in regional, rural and remote Australia to create jobs, build opportunity and unlock economic growth and productivity – ensuring that our regions remain great places to live, work and play.”
“Our investments are planning and building more liveable and productive precincts across the state through effective local regional partnerships that provide long-term benefits.”
Mayor Doyle said “this grant application was a collaborative effort with many local stakeholders providing input and letters of support. We are thrilled to reward their effort and look forward to building on this partnership over the life of this important project.”
The proposed precincts respond to community needs to improve housing choice and affordability, job creation and education opportunities, economic growth, community health and wellbeing, active and public transport options, and adaptation to climate change.
The investment builds on other Federal Government commitments to the region, including $5 million to build a new childcare centre in Huonville, $40 million for Huon Highway upgrade and $13.2 million investment in the Huon Link Road project.
ENDS