Well, after three and a half years and a couple of stops and starts we are under way with planning for the development of Livingstone’s northern corridor.
The Northern Corridor Reference Group met for the first time last Saturday at The Caves, and it was truly exciting to be part of it.
I am confident that this group will play a major role in bringing positive opportunities to the areas including and north of, Glenlee, Glendale and Rockyview.
The Reference Group is comprised of community members from the northern communities, all of whom have demonstrated passion for the area and a commitment to making it better.
Unfortunately, the boundary challenge from Rockhampton Regional Council put planning on hold until the Deputy Premier made a decision as to whether these suburbs would remain with Livingstone or transfer to Rockhampton.
Thankfully, the decision came down in Livingstone’s favour, so we are now up and running.
The first meeting discussed the various planning zones through the corridor, so that group members could understand what the existing opportunities and handbrakes might be, and
the ways in which the group might work with the Planning Scheme to achieve outcomes.
Finally, discussions opened up to consider economic development opportunities for the north, which included agritourism, value-adding to agriculture, commercial opportunities, and
further residential development. I’m sure different opportunities will also “come to the table”.
The corridor has at least four key elements that make it a prime area for economic development.
Firstly and secondly, it has the Bruce Highway running through it as well as a major rail line.
Both of these elements allow connection to markets in the north and south.
Thirdly, it has a reliable water supply that is a key element for many industries, particularly agriculture.
Finally, it has plenty of flood free land that can be developed without fear of inundation.
Combined, these elements make the northern corridor a strategically significant asset for our community, the future of which we are keen to explore.
I look forward to updating you on progress.
