A Powerlink accommodation precinct designed to house about 450 workers to progress the CopperString transmission project is nearing completion at Hughenden.
Powerlink executive general manager of major projects Ian Lowry said the business was well-positioned to get on with the job of the preliminary works of the Hughenden Hub later this year.
“To be on the verge of starting operations after a sod turn around 12 months ago is a testament to the team who has constructed the facility,” Mr Lowry said.
Powerlink has also achieved a significant environmental milestone with the approval of the offset management plan required for construction mobilisation for the $225 million Hughenden Hub (Flinders substation).
“This plan has been delivered after 12 months of detailed planning with Department of Climate Change, Energy, the Environment and Water, along with significant ecological studies to identify and secure prospective offset properties in the region,” Mr Lowry said.
Key environmental commitments include restoration of native habitats, long-term improvement of habitat quality scores and the ongoing monitoring and reporting to ensure ecological outcomes are met
Powerlink will be meeting with local mayors and industry bodies in coming weeks to discuss investment into community legacy projects.
The initial communities set to see the benefits from the $30 million fund will be Hughenden and Richmond.