ROADS MEET AT FIG TREES ON THE MANNING

The public infrastructure work for one of the Manning Valley’s most transformational developments is nearing completion with the road between Bligh and Pitts Streets finally connected.

Development of the Fig Trees on the Manning residential and commercial precinct in Taree can now proceed following completion of the public infrastructure work which was required under the precinct’s original planning approval.

The Fig Trees on the Manning precinct will include residential apartments, cafes, restaurants, public recreational areas and a marina on the banks of the Manning River in Taree.

The work undertaken to date has included new footpaths and cycleways, a bridge over Browns Creek, upgraded roads and intersections and other infrastructure.

Federal Member for Lyne Dr David Gillespie said the $8.5-million in Federal funding provided by the former Coalition Government for the public infrastructure work would unlock more than $500-million in development and create thousands of construction jobs over the coming decade.

“With these works just about complete, development proposals can now be worked up, planning approvals secured and the transformation of the site can finally get underway,” Dr Gillespie said.

“First cab off the rank will be Bushland Health Group’s multi-storey residential apartment project overlooking the beautiful Manning River and nearby parklands taking senior’s retirement living to a whole new level.”

Bushland Health Group’s Special Projects Manager Denis Hawkins said the organisation was very excited about the new development.

“There has been extraordinary interest from the community about what we’re looking to build here and we have received many expressions of interest from locals and others wanting an apartment. It’s been hugely popular,” Mr Hawkins said.

“We’ve been working with Council to cater for this demand and we’re really trying to do something special given the flexibility the voluntary planning agreement for the site offers.”

Dr Gillespie said he expected MidCoast Council to work proactively with landowners of the precinct to get projects moving.

“I’d like to take this opportunity to congratulate everyone involved in the Fig Trees project.”

“The community is very excited about this development, and for good reason. It will deliver enormous economic benefits and significantly transform this part of town into a wonderful area for residential living and recreational and commercial activity by the water,” Dr Gillespie added.