Muswellbrook Shire Council has praised the NSW Government’s decision to include the AGL Hunter Energy Hub in the state’s new Investment Delivery Authority (IDA).
And, the move’s been described as a positive step toward accelerating investment and job opportunities in the region.
It also recognises the importance of the Upper Hunter as NSW transitions its energy sector and works to attract more industries, according to mayor Jeff Drayton.
All up, the IDA will support 16 projects collectively worth $34.4 billion.
“We welcome the state’s announcement to incorporate the AGL Hunter Energy Hub in the IDA,” he said.
“Anything that helps streamline and fast-track major investment projects in Muswellbrook will deliver jobs, entice industry and support the region as we manage significant economic change.”
The proposed venture is also expected to repurpose the former Liddell Power Station site, creating prospects for new energy and industrial development in the shire.
Cr Drayton said the establishment of the IDA reflected a growing recognition that coordination challenges between government agencies had historically slowed major infrastructure projects.
“The state should be applauded for establishing the IDA and acknowledging the importance of the AGL Energy Hub by providing this support,” he added.
The initiative is also particularly critical as the region prepares for significant industry transition in coming years, including the planned closure of BHP’s Mt Arthur Coal Mine in 2030 and the eventual retirement of other major assets such as Bayswater Power Station.
“Being able to bring forward new job and industry opportunities at the Liddell site will help give our community confidence that there is an exciting future for the shire,” Cr Drayton said.
Council noted the potential broader economic impacts of the upcoming closures across the region, too, and indicated coordinated government assistance was vital to securing new investment.
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