Council supports strategic land purchase for Waterloo

Published on Friday, 1 November 2024 at 2:42:19 PM

The Shire of Dardanup has taken a significant step towards the purchase of Lot 100 Martin Pelusey Road, located within the planned Waterloo Industrial Precinct, with Council unanimously supporting the motion at last week’s Ordinary Council Meeting.

Shire of Dardanup President Cr Tyrrell Gardiner said the $1.2 million land purchase is a strategic acquisition aimed at facilitating future infrastructure development.

Cr Gardiner said the land has been identified as an ideal site for an Open Access Intermodal Terminal (IMT) in the Department of Transport’s 2020 South West Supply Chain Strategy.

He said the IMT will play a crucial role in supporting the region’s freight needs and the Bunbury Port’s import and export activities.

“This decision reflects the Council’s commitment to proactive planning and infrastructure investment,” Cr Gardiner said.

“Securing Lot 100 ensures we can provide the land required for critical transport infrastructure to support regional economic growth.

"The development of the Waterloo Industrial Precinct will boost freight efficiency, attract investment, and create local jobs.

“This purchase is not just about today’s needs but about future-proofing our community. It positions the Shire as a leader in regional growth and infrastructure development.”

The Shire invited public feedback on the proposed use of its Sale Land Reserve Account to purchase Lot 100 Martin Pelusey Road, Waterloo. From September, the proposal was advertised across multiple platforms, with submissions open until 14 October. No public submissions were received by the deadline.

Cr Gardiner said the site is already designated as a special-use precinct for rail purposes under the Waterloo Industrial Park District Structure Plan (2021), developed by the WA Planning Commission.

“This aligns with the Shire’s vision of establishing the Waterloo Industrial Precinct as a key economic and transport hub for the South West,” Cr Gardiner said.

“The purchase will be funded through the Shire’s Sale of Land Reserve, a fund specifically established to manage proceeds from land sales. Council's decision ensures that these funds are reinvested in strategic initiatives that benefit the community and region.”

The Shire will now call for Registrations of Interest (ROI) in the coming weeks for use of the land for an Open Access Intermodal Terminal, and/or Advanced Timber and Metal Manufacturing.

Media contact: Tahnia Creedon, Communications Officer | tahnia.creedon@dardanup.wa.gov.au | 0436 942 509.

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