The South West Victorian Livestock Exchange is one step closer to having a roof over a section of the yards.

Council has awarded “preferred tenderer” status to Warrnambool firm Bolden Constructions.

The optimal time to construct the roof at the Caramut Road site is prior to winter 2020.

A roof would improve both animal welfare and patron amenity at the site, offering shade in summer and protections from rain in winter.

“It’s been a bit of a success story when you consider what has opened up in Mortlake,” said Warrnambool Mayor Tony Herbert.

“Our yards have competed very well and I think that is largely contributed to by the staff there, but also the loyal support from the farming community as well.

“The agents have been exemplary.”

Both tenders received were in excess of the budget allocation for the project. Council has options to review its capital program to reprioritise works to ensure appropriate funding is allocated to the project and is seeking funding opportunities from State and Federal Government sources to offset the shortfall.