Historical coal overlays that applied to large areas of industry zoned land south of Morwell have, this year, been removed following Latrobe City Council’s continuous advocating on behalf of the community.
Among those affected, Mandikos Haulage company director Jim Mandikos, was thrilled with the change to the state legislation.
Owner of land in Firmins Lane and surrounds, Jim said the changes would open up industrial land and bring investors and employment opportunities into the region.
“It will allow a bit of a diversion from coal and electricity into new and diverse industry,” Jim said, describing the changes as a boon for heavy industry.
“The thing is, the Valley is still a major power generator, even after Hazelwood was shut down,” he said.
“Bringing heavy industry closer will help prevent losses in energy as it goes through the powerlines, as the industry will be closer to the source, making it much more economic.”
In addition to heavy industry Jim would like to see more housing developments in the region.
“I hope more people get behind it and make a go of the opportunity that has presented itself.”
Latrobe City now has access to more than 460 hectares of Industrial zoned land thanks to the coal overlay removal.