Byron Shire Council staff say they are still waiting on feedback from the Roads and Maritime Services (RMS) over traffic issues for the proposed Bangalow food precinct.
Chase Developments has a DA before council which will eventually be decided upon by the state government’s Joint Regional Planning Panel (JRPP) owing to its being worth over $20m.
Located opposite the Bangalow Industrial Estate on Lismore Road, the proposal would see three 5,000 square metre buildings on a 26.6 hectare property which could be ‘doubled in size to 10,000 square metres in later stages.’
Also included is a 3,000 square metre rural industry building, three rural industry buildings of 800 square metres plus a 1,000 square metre ‘food excellence facility.’
Within a building would be a ‘restaurant/cafe takeaway food shop,’ which would primarily cater ‘for onsite employees and limited public visitor use.’
While proponent Chase Developments claims the proposal is ‘driven by the legitimate and immediate demand’ for large-scale food processing factories, many locals are not so impressed.
Resident Sue Franklin told The Echo it would be the largest industrial development ever for Byron Shire.
Traffic has been a major concern owing to the high level of truck movements expected through Bangalow.
Director of sustainable environment and economy Shannon Burt told The Echo, ‘Once we have finalised our assessment of the application, including the traffic issues, it will be sent to the JRPP.
JRRP decision
‘The JRRP will then advise people who have a submission of when the meeting will occur. The application will be determined by the JRPP.
UPDATE This story has been updated regarding a comment about the size of the development.
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