The project, funded through the Australian Government’s Regional and Local Community Infrastructure Program, was opened on Wednesday, February 1 by Senator Doug Cameron.

Completion of the project has laid the building blocks for the 22.6 hectare Lawson Industrial Estate to be a sustainable 21st century commercial site which will provide somewhere in the vicinity of 350 new jobs during the next five years.

Minister for Regional Australia Simon Crean said strengthening and diversifying regions to ensure their long term future is a key goal for the Australian Government.

Senator Cameron said at the launch the project is well thought through and delivers on many levels.

“Apart from significant economic benefits, the storm water improvement and water sensitive design features will assist with water management which is a concern for us all, especially in a City within a World Heritage Area national park,” he said.

The Australian Government has invested $3.3 million in the project in partnership with Blue Mountains City Council.

Mayor Daniel Myles said the business park received recognition as a best practice commercial site, winning an award for excellence in storm water management.

Labor’s spokesperson for Macquarie Susan Templeman said the initiative was essential for the Blue Mountains economy.

“Visionary projects like these ensure we create local jobs and help reduce the need for commuting that so many of us do from the Mountains,” she said.