A promise from the state government to designate Williamtown as a Special Activation Precinct (SAP) could offer assistance to residents and business impacted by PFAS contamination.
Port Stephens Liberal candidate Jaimie Abbott says she will work with the State Government, Newcastle Airport and Port Stephens Council to establish a SAP and address necessary PFAS remediation work.
The designation would mean Williamtown would be identified by the state government as an area where businesses could thrive.
Jaimie Abbott said the precinct could make way for property buybacks which residents have spent years calling for.
"This provides the framework for the federal government to come in and acquire the properties who've been affected by PFAS," said Ms Abbott.
"Businesses will be able to have development approvals approved faster and they'll also be able to receive financial incentive to set up shop in the Williamtown Special Activation Precinct."
The announcement follows a $20 million dollar commitment from both federal and state levels of the Labor party, which promises to ban PFAS and fund a clean-up of drain systems.
Jaimie Abbott said if the state government is re-elected the necessary scoping studies will take place to develop a business case for the Williamtown SAP.
"This Government is serious about attracting businesses and jobs to the Port Stephens region. SAP status will offer essential infrastructure and streamlined planning processes for industries and sectors responsible for driving significant growth," said Ms Abbott.
Jaimie Abbott says the Williamtown Special Activation Precinct will provide more opportunities with industries beyond defence, including health and residential care, tertiary education and skills, renewable energy and tourism and hospitality.
Mayor Ryan Palmer said the SAP could include an update of the Newcastle Airport runway and terminal, an extension of the M1 to Raymond Terrace and enhance road links to the airport and the port of Newcastle.
"The SAP will provide an immense benefit to our region, and I welcome any steps towards implementing such a precinct at Williamtown," said Mr Palmer.
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| Williamtown. Image: News Corp |
