Economic growth in the Clutha District just got a major boost following today’s announcement that the Provincial Growth Fund (PGF) will invest $6.5 million towards the expansion of the Clutha Gold Great Ride Cycle Trail and $200k to build a slip lane off State Highway One, unlocking the potential of the Rosebank Industrial Estate.
Clutha District Mayor Bryan Cadogan said to be able to work in tandem with the Government to realise the dream of this cycle trail was a tonic not only to Clutha, but to the wider Otago region.
“Thanks to the PGF we will now have an exciting cycle experience linking Queenstown to Coastal Otago and creating a whole new experience for tourists and locals alike.
“It shows a tangible link between heartland New Zealand and Central Government and a clear message of support for key projects that will enable the South to take advantage of opportunities that otherwise would never come to fruition.”
The $6.5 million investment along with other funding, would enable the Clutha Gold Trail Charitable Trust to expand the existing 73 km trail by an additional 63 km from Lawrence to Waihola via Milton.
It was expected to bring an estimated 62 additional jobs during the construction phase, and an average of 36 jobs per year over the first 10 years of operation, rising to 47 new jobs by 2031.
Mayor Cadogan said it had been almost an impossible challenge in recent years to “turn the cogs of our economy”.
He said the PGF was enabling the district to take advantage of favourable times and facilitate key projects stimulating growth and well-being for years to come.
The $200k investment in the slip lane would enable large trucks and other vehicles to safely exit the highway to access the various businesses that will be located in the industrial estate and bring at least 45 additional jobs to Balclutha.
“The PGF has identified a key project for Clutha, understanding how critical it is to have industrial growth, and the catalyst this will have on jobs and vitality in our economy.
“Knowing this Government not only understands the needs of rural communities but is prepared to back transformational developments is a much needed “injection of belief” for the South,” Mayor Cadogan said.
Clutha Gold Great Ride Cycle Trail information
Special features of the trail include:
- A journey through New Zealand’s rural heartland – green, pastoral landscapes with rolling hill country, broad basins and active farming operations right alongside the trail.
- Historic farm buildings, infrastructure and railway history.
3 km’s of trail alongside Lake Waihola, with fantastic views of the lake and surrounding countryside. - A board walk section through the Regionally Significant Wetland at the south end of Lake Waihola.
- The ‘Calder Stewart’ section of track, which will include architecturally designed bridges, native and exotic plantings, and even a ‘Stonehenge’ feature.
Historic railway bridges and tunnels along the trail.