The West Coast Council will continue its plans to strengthen the region, despite yesterday’s announcement that low metal prices will further delay the reopening of the Mt. Lyell mine in Queenstown.

“We commend CMT for their hard work in doing everything they could to reopen the mine, unfortunately metal prices are out of our control,” Mayor Phil Vickers said.  “This news is not what we wanted to hear however Council and the community must continue to move forward with a focus on economic development and diversification to sustain and grow business in the area,”

Recruitment of an economic development, tourism and events coordinator is underway and an improved NBN service will be key to attracting new industries to the West Coast, with lobbying of the Federal Government to continue. 

“The West Coast is tenacious and we love a challenge - now is the time for us all to work together and Council will be actively seeking partnerships with stakeholders and seeking to attract investors to the region.”

Council is calling on state and federal government and private sector organisations to come on board and work with the West Coast community. 

“It’s now time for all stakeholders, across all our communities and industries to rally and pursue the strategies identified in the West Coast Community Plan 2025.” Mayor Vickers said.