Minister Pledges Additional Funding to Pemberton

“I am pleased that funding through Royalties for Regions and the South West Development Commission will be used to give Pemberton a new lease of life,” Mr Grylls said.

“The Pemberton renewal project is one of significant strategic importance and involves major works including road modifications and the installation of underground power.

Left: An injection of $220,000 provides options for Pemberton Mainstreet Project. Ward Councillors Dave Pottinger and Shire President Wade DeCampo discuss the project with the Minister for Regional Development, Brendon Grylls..  Photo courtesy of Royalties for Regions and South West Development Commission.

“It also includes work on pedestrian access and footpaths with major works on streetscaping which are integral to the plans for this important project.”

 “The shire has made a commitment to start work on the project with the available funds but this grant will enable work to move forward significantly,” Mr Grylls said.

“This project will not only improve the amenity for local residents but also help to increase the town’s popularity with tourists.”

The Shire of Manjimup was initially forced to scale back the proposed scope of works when Commonwealth funding was not forthcoming.  Works commenced in 2008/09, with the project currently scheduled to be completed in 2011/12.

The additional unexpected funding will give Council a range of options to consider:

1.      Expand the scope of works as the original scope was reduced due to budget constraints;

2.      The funds may allow the Shire to develop Brockman Park properly to include some community art.  This is currently beyond the current scope of the project.

3.      Maintain the current project scope but fast track the project by bringing works forward; or

4.      Substituting Royalties for Regions funding for Council municipal funds (currently $741,000 for the project to date) and apply the municipal funds elsewhere for other purposes within the community.

Shire President Wade DeCampo welcomed the surprise announcement.

“The introduction of the Royalties for Regions has given local government a tremendous opportunity to progress a backlog of infrastructure projects which had little chance of being prioritised to receive funding otherwise,” Cr DeCampo said.

It is intended that asset renewal will be funded by the individual local governments to ensure existing infrastructure is maintained more effectively, while new infrastructure will primarily be funded through regional groups to promote efficient development.

“As more of the funding will be allocated to regional bodies each year, the challenge going forward will be to work with regional grouping to deliver new infrastructure in a way that is truly regional,” Cr DeCampo concluded.

Above: Brendon Grylls, Minister for Regional Development meets with members of the Warren Blackwood Strategic Alliance (Shires of Manjimup, Bridgetown-Greenbushes, Boyup Brook and Nannup). Photo courtesy of Shire of Manjimup.

Authorised by:

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Wade DeCampo, Shire President, Shire of Manjimup - Contact Wade DeCampo on 0427 094 081