ROADWORKS are set to begin near the Ingham’s Enterprises factory, Somerville.
Treasurer Tim Pallas visited the large-scale chicken meat producer in Grants Rd last week to discuss the economic benefits of improving nearby Golf Links Rd.
The works would better cater for heavy vehicles and clear the way for a major Ingham’s expansion, resulting in significant economic benefits for the Frankston area and the Mornington Peninsula as a whole, the treasurer said.
He said this year’s budget included a $10 million package to develop business cases for upgrades to key outer suburban arterial roads around Melbourne, including Golf Links Rd.
“This detailed assessment will begin this year and will look at construction estimates, preliminary designs, impact studies, geotechnical investigations, environmental and cultural heritage studies, and community consultation.”
Frankston mayor Cr James Dooley said the roads funding was “exciting news as a step towards finalising the expansion of the Somerville factory”.
“We made a commitment to Ingham’s that we would advocate to the Victorian government, and this announcement has delivered both the Frankston community and Ingham’s a win,” he said.
Mr Pallas said the business case would look at a future upgrade of the Golf Links and Warrandyte roads intersection as well as the Baxter-Tooradin, Grant and Warrandyte roads roundabout, and how this could enable it to cater for B-double trucks.
“Bigger trucks would allow Ingham’s to consider future expansion of their operations and create more jobs in Somerville,” Mr Pallas said.
The company is reportedly the largest employer on the peninsula – with about 600 staff – and contributes about $200 million to the local economy.
Cr Dooley said the announcement “was critical to not only retain these jobs, but also to increase employment opportunities within the region as a result of Ingham’s expanding their operations”.
“Ingham’s expansion depends on this vital project going ahead to allow large trucks direct access to Peninsula Link. We encourage any growth in the factory as it will provide economic growth and stable employment for the region,” the mayor said.
Frankston MP Paul Edbrooke: “Locals know that all levels of government need to support jobs, industry and manufacturing and that’s why I have advocated so strongly for this investment which will benefit Frankston and the Mornington Peninsula.”
First published in the Western Port News – 17 May 2016
