Victorian Govt Support For Wangaratta Avian Park Strategy

A project which could potentially lead to the return of greyhound racing to Wangaratta's Avian Park Raceway has received a $50,000 grant from the Victorian Coalition Government.

Minister for Regional Cities and Racing, Denis Napthine, was joined by the Member for Murray Valley, Tim McCurdy, in making the announcement today.

“This $50,000 grant will enable the Rural City of Wangaratta to develop a strategy that will guide the use of four under-utilised parcels of land, including the Avian Park Raceway which was shut down under the previous Labor Government,” Dr Napthine said.

“The South Wangaratta Urban Renewal Strategy will provide guidance to determine future opportunities for Greyhound and/or harness racing to potentially return to Wangaratta.

“On top of identifying the best use for the 10 hectare Avian Park site, the strategy will also focus on the 6.5 hectare former Ovens College campus site, a former landfill site and a potential retail site adjacent to the newly opened Bunnings store.

“The strategy will also include a market demand assessment, development feasibilities, financial assessments and an implementation plan,” Dr Napthine said.

Member for Murray Valley Tim McCurdy said the strategy would help the Rural City of Wangaratta to achieve its aim – outlined in the Wangaratta 2030 Community Vision – of reaching 40,000 residents by 2030.

“The South Wangaratta Urban Renewal Strategy will help generate significant economic and community development in this currently under-used area of Wangaratta,” Mr McCurdy said.

“The strategy will help curb the urban sprawl through the better use of existing land and determine the most appropriate use for key sites within the precinct.

“It is important to provide a long term vision for sustainable development of commercial, industrial and residential areas in Wangaratta. This strategy will provide a clear direction for the business and investor community thus improving investor confidence and generating greater economic activity for the town,” Mr McCurdy said.

The project will begin in July and will be completed early in 2012.

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