The Victorian Government is progressing with the biggest urban renewal project in regional Australia – the revitalisation of Junction Place in Wodonga in a bid to create local jobs, attract new visitors and boost the economy.
In total, the project area spans 10 hectares, with a total development timeframe of 15 – 20 years. Development Victoria has predicted that the urban renewal initiative is likely to increase the Wodonga population by 40 per cent over 20 years.
Member for Northern Victoria Jaclyn Symes said the project is forecast to inject up to $250 million into the local economy, boost visitation to the region, create local construction jobs as well as ongoing jobs in the retail, accommodation and hospitality sectors.
“The transformation of Junction Place will mean serious business for our region – creating new jobs, boosting businesses and attracting more visitors,” she said, “this is a real game-changer and a fantastic opportunity to breathe new life into the heart of Wodonga, making our community a better place to live, work and raise a family.”
The Junction Place urban redevelopment project has recently hit several key milestones, including the lodgement of a planning application for a $70 million cinema and entertainment facility.
The proposed development features a 10-screen cinema, that will host over 2,000 seats, an amusement centre, restaurants and exciting food and beverage operators. Construction on the cinema and entertainment facility is expected to start in mid to late 2019.
The project will also deliver a four-star hotel and conference centre, commercial office spaces, residential housing and a market hall.
Furthermore, the project will breathe life into central Wodonga’s former historic railway station and rail yards. After everything has been finalised, the project will double the size of Wodonga’s current central business district.
More information on the Junction Place revitalisation project can be found here.