Jointly funded by Mitchell Shire Council, the $90,000 project will include an analysis of local road freight options to connect to and from the Hume Fwy and the Goulburn Valley Hwy.
The study will undertake modelling of population growth, regional economic development and industry forecasts, along with freight demand projections, future potential network restrictions and supply chain opportunities within Seymour.
Experts will also assess infrastructure requirements and improvements needed to support the movement of freight vehicles through Seymour.
Ports and Freight Minister Melissa Horne announced the funding investment, which will be delivered through the government’s Flexible Local Transport Solutions Program.
“By investing in projects like the Seymour Freight Network Study, we’re future-proofing the freight industry and ensuring jobs and economic security for our regional Victorian towns,” Ms Horne said.
“Maintaining and investing in our freight network ensures that goods are getting where they need to go, and that we’re creating jobs across the state.”
The freight logistics sector contributes $36 billion to Victoria’s economy and employs about 260,000 Victorians.
The government has indicated that freight volumes are predicted to increase from around 360 million tonnes in 2014 to about 900 million tonnes in 2051.
The investment is set to support evidence-based transport and freight studies to inform investment decisions leading to the more efficient movement of freight at local levels.
Mitchell Shire Mayor John Dougall welcomed the funding announcement for the town.
“We thank the Victorian Government for partnering with council to fund this important study,” he said.
“Combining our local knowledge with expert analysis will allow us to make informed decisions that improve safety, efficiency and connectivity for freight movements through Seymour.”
14°C