The Shire of York’s Light Industrial Area Access Upgrade Project has been awarded $8 million dollars as part of the Federal Government’s 2022/23 budget.Â
In a statement, Shire of York Council said the Light Industrial Area (LIA) has faced ongoing challenges with heavy vehicles being unable to access the area safely, as well as localised flooding issues.
Local businesses have worked with the Shire to clearly define the access problems faced and the impact on York being able to service the Agricultural sector, the Shire’s biggest industry, it said.
The project will see improved road access (RAV 4), improved drainage and service relocation being developed within the LIA. A heavy vehicle rest area has also been considered, with the final location still under investigation.
“The Shire has worked collaboratively with local businesses, Main Roads Wheatbelt Central and Northern Regions Directorate on an acceptable solution for the intersections to allow the project to be realised,” said Shire of York CEO, Chris Linnell.
“This collaborative approach has been successful in considering the best outcome for the community of York as well as the safety of road users”.
He said the multiple benefits include increased safety for road users, drainage upgrades to a mainly underground pipe network and increased economic activity in York’s dominant industry.  In addition, local businesses anticipate better employment sustainability, and the improved access will open up the possibility of future expansion of the area.
The project will generate local jobs with construction expected to be undertaken over multiple years, Council said.
The Council has extended its thanks to the Federal Government and gratitude to MP Melissa Price for her support and advocacy for the project.
