THE Valla Urban Growth Area (VUGA) is quickly taking shape, with bulk earthworks for Stage One now 90 percent complete.
Construction began in May 2025 to transform the site into a new hub for industry, investment and jobs in the Nambucca Valley.
Local contractor AJ Civil Projects has moved a staggering 120,000 cubic metres of earth to prepare the landscape for future infrastructure.
This represents a significant acceleration from the halfway mark reported in October, when 75,000 cubic metres had been moved.
Nambucca Valley Mayor Gary Lee and State Member for Oxley Michael Kemp visited the site off Red Ash Road on Thursday, 27 November to see the progress firsthand.
Mayor Lee said the pace and professionalism of the work was impressive.
“The Cat 637 scrapers and the D8 dozers are still hard at work on this placemaking project for our region,” Mayor Lee told News Of The Area.
“At this rate, the civil works contractor estimates bulk earthworks for Stage One will be completed by Christmas, weather depending.”
In addition to the bulk earthworks, construction is now well underway on vital infrastructure including water and sewer lines.
Once the terrain is fully shaped and stabilised, trenching and the new access road construction will begin, bringing the site closer to readiness for industrial development.
Stage One of the project is being made possible through a combined $28.2 million investment, including $11.2 million from the Australian and NSW Governments, and $17 million from Nambucca Valley Council.
The precinct delivers on several key goals of Council’s Economic Development and Tourism Strategy, aiming to attract new businesses and unlock employment potential for the region.
Mayor Lee confirmed that the first industrial lots are on track to be released in 2026, opening the door to further economic growth for the Nambucca Valley.
“This is more than just earth being moved, this is the foundation for future jobs, business opportunities, and long-term prosperity in our community,” he said.
By Mick BIRTLES
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