INDUSTRIAL land development at the Armidale Regional Airport hinges on the $3 million roundabout announced on Friday.
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Fifteen businesses are ready to sign on the dotted line, but Armidale Regional Council is still waiting on a commitment of $5 million from the state government to develop the industrial land adjacent to the airport.
“We’re basically waiting for the start up funding to get going,” mayor Simon Murray said.
Northern Tablelands MP Adam Marshall visited the site three weeks ago with Deputy Premier John Barilaro to look at plans for the business park.
“The $5 million I’m requesting from the state government is going to provide council with the capital they need to open the first stage of the park,” he said.
The funds will cover sewer mains, water and head works to open up the blocks, council will then self-fund the development as blocks are sold to developers and businesses.
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“This roundabout has to come first because this business park can’t be opened up until the road access is here,” Mr Marshall said.
“Everything is hinging on the development of this roundabout.”
Council has secured NBN fibre to the premise, part of a bigger picture to drive economic growth to the region, with the potential for air freight down the track.
The roundabout provides access to a private development on the opposite side of the New England Highway, and will form the new entrance to Saumarez Homestead and the airport.
A $2.7 million project at Saumarez Homestead will see the historic mansion turned into a major tourism destination.
The grounds will become home to 10 heritage style cabins built near the old coach house, and is expected to inject an additional $6.5 million tourist dollars into the town.
Better access via the new roundabout will make the Edwardian mansion more attractive to visiting parties.
And, Member for New England Barnaby Joyce officially turned the sod for the project on Friday.
“We’re going to be bringing more industry into town, more business into town – it’s a project Armidale Regional Council has been in negotiations with us over for nearly two years.
“Now we’re seeing delivery and completion within six months, it’s going to be great for the airport and great for business.”