Council is encouraging the entire community to have its say on the future of the South-West Victorian Livestock Exchange, often referred to as the Warrnambool saleyards.
At its August meeting Council voted against making a large investment of up to $6 million to upgrade the saleyards.
“It was a split decision but the majority of Councillors are concerned about the significantly long payback time associated with such a large investment, whether it should be a Council priority and there is now an alternative livestock selling centre at nearby Mortlake,” Mayor Cr Vicki Jellie said.
“We have some difficult decisions to make on the future of the saleyards, which are a commercial operation.
“Council wants to know how the community feels about the future of the saleyards.
“This consultation will help inform a final decision on the saleyards.”
The consultation will begin with a survey which is available at www.yoursaywarrnambool.com.au
Print versions of the survey will also be available at the Civic Centre, 25 Liebig Street, Warrnambool or call 5559 4800.
The survey closes on August 26.
“Once we have analysed the survey results we will arrange separate focus group discussions with the various stakeholder cohorts including stock agents, residents, transport operators and so on,” Cr Jellie said.
“At this stage we anticipate making a final decision on the future of the saleyards at the November meeting of Council.”