The feasibility projects, announced by Parliamentary Under-Secretary for Regional Economic Development Fletcher Tabuteau, are a $995,000 Invercargill inner-city development, $424,900 for a possible salmon hatchery and nursery, and a $490,000 boost for sheep and goat industry resources.
«These announcements demonstrate the PGF’s focus on projects with potential to spark economic growth and create jobs in the Southland region,» Mr Tabuteau said in a statement.
An investment of $490,000 in FoodSouth is being made by the Government with the aim of scoping further development of the sheep and goat milk industry.
«Sheep and goat dairying is an emerging industry with significant potential driven by high consumer demand for environmentally sustainable, alternative milk products,» he said.
«Sheep milk farming exists in pockets around the country, particularly in Southland, but this project will assess the economic viability of developing a nationwide industry.»
FoodSouth will develop a national business case to identify export opportunities, estimates required for goat and sheep milk volumes to meet potential demand, and consider the best locations for plants.
The report will focus on liquids, cheese, butter, and protein powders – the four products which are considered to have high-value potential.
«Southland sheep milk farmers stand to benefit from the information and insights this project will create, including workshops and market research.»
An injection of $424,900 will fund a business case for development of a state of the art, land-based commercial hatchery to produce salmon smolt and mussel spat.
The hatchery would also address the shortage of juvenile salmon.
«This has the potential to unlock over $400 million in export earnings and over 500 jobs for the region.»
The inner-city development in Invercargill is part of the strategy to grow Southland’s population with the project aiming to create a city centre precinct to attract high-quality retail, restaurants, offices and entertainment venues, he said.
«The Inner-City Development is a visionary project to bring life and vitality to Invercargill and Southland.
«The funding will support Stage Two of the project, ensuring it is robust enough to attract future investment, and deliver infrastructure that is resilient and sustainable.»
The project at this stage includes a business case, feasibility study, concept designs and procurement strategies are included in this stage of the project to ultimately deliver confidence in the wider region.
