Michael Johnsen MP, Member for Upper Hunter has announced that a construction tender for the Singleton Regional Livestock Market upgrade has been awarded to Wiley.
“The Nationals in Government are very proud to contribute $6 million in funding for this project, as it will provide a huge lift to our Singleton community and our local agricultural industry,” Mr Johnsen said.
Wiley will be undertaking a range of works including installing a roof over the Northern Yards selling area, upgrading walkways to comply with structural standards, updating onsite services and amenities such as electrical, hydraulics and fire services, installing rainwater harvest tanks and upgrading the intersection leading to the Gresford Road facility.
Wiley Managing Director, Tom Wiley said “We are proud to be supporting the Singleton Regional Livestock Market upgrade to secure the future of the agricultural community. We are looking forward to the construction phase and working closely with the local community.”
“Beef production is big business in Singleton for both our local famers and suppliers, and the wider NSW economy,” Mr Johnsen said.
“This upgrade will allow the Singleton Regional Livestock Market to meet the current demands of local beef producers and provide the infrastructure for the growth of this vital industry.”
The $6 Million funding was provided by the NSW Government under the Restart NSW Resources for Regions program, which aims to support regional communities that are related to mining, with Singleton Council contributing another $1.73 Million to the project.
Anthony Egan, Council’s Director Corporate and Community, said awarding the tender was a significant milestone in the project.
“With designs complete and a contractor engaged, we can now move into the construction phase to start making the plans a reality.
“We intend that regular weekly sales will continue while the works are undertaken, and appreciate the patience and support of agents and other users of the saleyards at this time,” Mr Egan concluded.
Wiley will work collaboratively with the council to ensure the impact on the operations at the saleyards is minimised during construction.
“At the end of the process, we will have a real state-of-the-art venue, with huge improvements in animal welfare standards, work health and safety, disability access and saleyard facilities,” Mr Johnsen concluded.
Construction works are expected to commence by early May.
The Resources for Regions program has provided $233 million to 42 projects across NSW including the health, water, road, education and tourism sectors, as well as in the refurbishment of regional CBDs.
