Splitting 120 pens into 240 pens and improving access to animal loading ramps will form the next stages of the $7.5 million Warwick Saleyards Redevelopment Project.
The Southern Downs Regional Council outlined details of continuing upgrades of the Warwick Saleyards following the resolution of a motion passed at a council meeting last week.
In a statement the council said that following the successful completion of Stage 1 and with Stage 2 commencing, Stage 3 will concentrate on sheep yard upgrades while Stage 4 will improve access to animal loading ramps and build new car parking.
“In response to user requests, Council will also fund the splitting of the 120 selling pens in Stage 1 into 240 pens to increase head numbers as well as making changes to the Stage 2 pen layout,” the statement said.
Southern Downs Mayor Melissa Hamilton said she looked forward to more works progressing at the saleyards for the economic benefit of the region.
“The Warwick Saleyards are a vital part of the region’s livestock industry and Council’s ongoing investment reflects our dedication to fostering the economic growth of our agricultural sector,” Mayor Hamilton said.
“While we have not been able to fund all of the agent requests, Council will continue to seek external funding through other Government sources.
“These latest budgeted works reaffirm Council’s vision for a thriving and sustainable future for the region and supports our broader commitment to attract more business to the facility.
“By continuing to upgrade the facility as budget and funding becomes available, we acknowledge that the Warwick Saleyards are a vital hub for livestock trading and economic prosperity for our producers.”
New Council funded works at a glance
- Splitting 120 new selling pens in half via a new gate and adding 120 new troughs, creating 240 pens in total
Pen layout adjustments to Stage 2 to accommodate agent requests. - Stages 3 and 4 works include a sheep yard with soft shade over fat lamb area, a new administration office for the sheep yards, NLIS equipment, light pole reprofile and gravel hardstand in front of ramps, demolish Z yards and create a gravel carpark* (*Will be submitted for funding through the Queensland Government Works 4 Queensland Program).
Upgrades to-date for the $7.5m Warwick Saleyards Redevelopment Project have been co-funded by the Federal Government’s Black Summer Bushfire Recovery Grant Program and Council.
In addition and following requests from stakeholders, Council has funded an additional $1 million in variations for Stage 1 including the provision of structural posts for a future roof and other ancillary works.
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