Mornington Peninsula Shire Council sees the release of 400 hectares of land near Hastings for light industry as the key to creating jobs and “increasing economic output”.
The land has been virtually “frozen” for decades because of the expectation of its development alongside the Port of Hastings.
However, plans for a major container port have been shelved due to lack of international demand and expansion of the Port of Melbourne.
The shire says the land – part of 3500 hectares set aside for port related purposes – may be freed up for light industry under the latest strategy released by the Port of Hastings Development Authority.
“The council has lobbied for more industrial land and this new strategy is the breakthrough needed.” the mayor Cr David Gill said.
Cr Gill said the land was surplus to the needs of the Port of Hastings and the authority was recommending “industrial use options”.
“This will create jobs and increase economic output on the peninsula,” Cr Gill said.
“The municipality is unable to meet business demand because suitably zoned land is unavailable and planning zones musts be approved by the state government.
“The biggest demand is for marine related light industries which would be terrific for the peninsula because of lower environmental impact and a high ratio of jobs.
“The shire will consider how this land may be used to best drive investment opportunities, support local job creation and other uses.”
First published in the Western Port Times – 12 June 2019
