THE first stage of the Beveridge Intermodal Precinct has received the stamp of approval from Mitchell Shire Council (MSC).
Council, which has championed the project from its formation, has welcomed the Victorian Government’s planning approval, a significant milestone.
MSC Mayor Councillor John Dougall said the approval was the next step in a long journey that began with Mitchell recognising the site’s potential more than a decade ago.
“Mitchell was the first level of government to see the benefits this project could bring for our community,” he said.
“We have led the advocacy for this project since it was first floated. We saw its potential before anyone else.
“From day one, we’ve been relentless in our advocacy – developing the first investment case, working closely with NorthLink and the Northern Council Alliance and, leading delegations to Canberra, and working with industry to build the support that now surrounds this project.”
The Beveridge Intermodal Precinct will be a nationally significant freight hub, linking Melbourne with Sydney, Brisbane and Perth through the Inland Rail network.
It is forecast to create more than 7,000 jobs on site and 20,000 jobs in the precinct. It will inject billions into Victoria’s economy and become the most significant contributor to Mitchell’s economy.
Cr Dougall said the benefits for Mitchell residents had always been front of mind.
“For us, this is about jobs and opportunities close to home for people in Beveridge, Wallan and across the Shire,” he said.
“We’ve worked hand-in-hand with National Intermodal, including co-hosting the very first community engagement session right here in Beveridge, to make sure local voices are heard and local people share in the benefits.”
Mitchell’s advocacy, combined with Federal investment in the site and surrounding infrastructure such as the $900 million Camerons Lane interchange, has been critical in positioning the precinct as one of Australia’s most important infrastructure projects.
“This planning approval is a welcome step forward, but let’s be clear – this project simply wouldn’t be where it is today without Mitchell Shire leading the charge from the very beginning,” Cr Dougall said.
“We knew this would be a game changer for Melbourne’s north, and we never gave up on our fight to secure the project. We were the project’s greatest supporter.
“We’ll continue to work closely with the Victorian and Federal Governments, National Intermodal and our regional partners to ensure the benefits of this precinct are delivered for the people of Mitchell.”
