Cash boost for east precinct

A FEDERAL government funding boost for the push to revitalise Bendigo East is now official.

Member for Bendigo Lisa Chesters met Bendigo TAFE officials at the Bendigo East Bowls Club last week to mark the $1.182 million allocation – announced in the recent budget – for the TAFE-led Bendigo East Urban Renewal Precinct project.

Still in its early stages, the project will result in a Precinct Master Plan aimed at activating up-to five hectares of under-used land for education, housing and community use within 750 metres of the city centre.

Specifically, it is intended to revitalise the trades-based Charleston Road TAFE campus to meet demand for emerging clean energy, mining and manufacturing programs, to create a Clean Energy Centre of Excellence and create social, affordable and key worker housing using sustainable design.

Existing community recreational swimming, lawn bowls and mixed-use facilities will also receive an overhaul.

The money comes from the government’s Regional Precincts and Partnerships Program which provides grants for the design and delivery of precincts, or ‘places with purpose,’ to meet local priorities.

“I am thrilled to announce the federal Labor government will fund the Bendigo East Urban Renewal Precinct project,” Ms Chesters said.

“East Bendigo has so much potential and this funding will help to develop a comprehensive precinct plan for this part of our city.”

Bendigo TAFE chief executive officer Sally Curtain said the institution was pleased to be working with government, local industry and the community to deliver a “vibrant” plan to revitalise the area.

“Our aspiration for this precinct is to activate a destination where training, education, housing and community meet to deliver significant benefits for the region,” she said.

“We believe this project can help stimulate the regional aconomy, boost employment, help address housing demand, drive innovation through infrastructure, and transform industry-specific skills and training.”

Organisations involved in or supporting the project include the Dja Dja Wurrung Clans Aboriginal Corporation, the City of Greater Bendigo, the Bendigo Business Council, the Bendigo Regional Manufacturing Group, Loddon Mallee Housing Services, Bendigo East Bowling Club, Bendigo East Amateur Swimming Club, and the Bendigo Amateur Radio and Electronic Club.