Growers welcome plans for bulked-up CBH facility

Growers have welcomed the approval of a development application for an expanded Co-operative Bulk Handling storage facility in Dumbleyung. The application, approved by the Shire of Dumbleyung, outlines plans for the construction of two new steel framed grain storage bulkheads, as well as a new concrete stabilised hardstand area in the south-western portion of the land. The bulkheads are set to be 215m and 225m long respectively, each standing 1.8m high and 35m wide. This would provide an extra 57,630 tonnes of storage, a 30 per cent increase on current capacity. The Shire has estimated the value of capital investment at about $8.2 million. Shire President Julie Ramm said the upgrades had the potential to be a boost for CBH, farmers and the community. “By committing to this upgrade in infrastructure, CBH has shown its willingness to maintain Dumbleyung as an integral logistics receival and storage site in the Wheatbelt,” she said. “From a Shire perspective, this is what we needed, we do need that extra storage. “While council are disappointed that the upgrades won’t be in place for this year’s early projection of a bumper crop, we look forward to continuing to work closely with CBH when they submit final design costings for the roadworks.” Ms Ramm said the upgrades would also help the Shire get more access to emergency water supplies — a vital asset during bushfire season. A CBH spokeswoman said the co-op would keep growers informed of the progress of the development. “CBH welcomes the development application approval by the Shire of Dumbleyung for the intended expansion of the Dumbleyung receival site,” the spokeswoman said. “CBH continues to work through internal processes in preparing the project for execution.” The approval stipulates that the project must be substantially progressed within two years.