Government providing a $50,000 loan to Shire of Pingelly

30/10/96

The State Government will provide a $50,000 loan to the Shire of Pingelly for the development of an industrial estate in the town.

Regional Development Minister Hendy Cowan said the interest-free loan had been arranged under the Government's Regional Headworks Development Scheme.

It would help finance development of 10 industrial blocks at the corner of View and Balfour Streets in Pingelly.

The money would be used to offset the cost of water headworks and installation of three-phase power supply.

Mr Cowan said the scheme was established earlier this year to assist rural businesses and local government authorities to pay headworks charges.

Avon MLA Max Trenorden welcomed the finalisation of the loan arrangement, adding that it would convert to a grant if at least three blocks in the estate were sold within two years.

"The development of the industrial estate is a forward-looking move by the shire and provides a base for future industrial expansion in the town," Mr Trenorden said.

"The Regional Headworks Development Scheme acknowledges that the economic development of regional areas can be affected by high charges for water, electricity, gas and sewer connections.

"I would urge prospective business operators to use the scheme and make application through the Department of Commerce and Trade."

Media contact: Peter Jackson 222-9595