The NSW Government is supporting the development of strategies that will assist the Goulburn Rail Trail to be accurately planned.
The recently established Goulburn Mulwaree Council Committee, Goulburn Rail Trail Steering Committee (GRTSC) – which was set up in accordance with the recently released NSW Rail Trails Framework – has been successful in their application to the Regional NSW Business Case and Strategy Development Fund.
Member for Goulburn Wendy Tuckerman announced $147,775 in funding today to enable the development of a Feasibility Study, Quantity Surveyor Report, Benefit Cost Analysis and Business Case for the staged construction of the Goulburn Rail Trail and network options of current urban walking and cycling tracks.
Mrs Tuckerman said the program will provide funding that will enable Goulburn Mulwaree Council to engage experts to investigate new project ideas and assist with funding applications.
“I am excited about the great potential of the rail trail and the possibility for Goulburn to build an inclusive, nature based, recreational pathway along the disused rail corridor linking with the 18km of existing Wollondilly and Mulwaree Walking Tracks in Goulburn.”
Goulburn Mulwaree Council Mayor Peter Walker welcomed the funding.
“The development of a Business Case for the Rail Trail will assist Council to deliver the project by building Council’s capacity to plan the project details – making sure we are investment-ready for future funding opportunities.” Clr Walker said.
Goulburn Rail Trail Steering Committee (GRTSC) Chair, Councillor Bob Kirk said the GRTSC was delighted with the outcome.
“The funding, along with work being undertaken by the Steering Committee, will deliver accurate costings and scope of the rail trail, inform us of the economic and social benefits and, capacity for Council to undertake and maintain the project.” Clr Kirk said.
Deputy Premier and Minister for Regional NSW Paul Toole said the regions are bursting with people full of ideas with the potential to create jobs, boost economies, and attract investment.
“Any successful project starts with evidence-based planning and this program will help take great ideas and concepts a step closer to reality, benefiting entire communities,” Mr Toole said.
“This is about helping make business cases stand out and be more competitive, it will help break down project costs, outline how projects will benefit the community and identify any challenges that need to be met.
“The Business Case and Strategy Development Fund will support 94 Councils and community groups across regional NSW, helping these organisations prepare for future grant opportunities and build their capacity to plan for important projects.”
The Regional NSW – Business Case and Strategy Development Fund is part of the $3.3 billion Regional Growth Fund and will help create a pipeline of investment-ready projects for future funding opportunities.
For further information, go to www.nsw.gov.au/BusinessCaseFund.
WENDY TUCKERMAN 