Kyneton disruption to be minimised during renovation

Kieran McGrath, McGrath Rodwells, said he anticipated an early start would be made on the upgrade.

Mr McGrath said livestock sales had been running for 160 years in the Central Highlands town.

"We've said we'll work around the builders," he said.

"There could be a bit of disruption, but it shouldn't affect our monthly store sale.

"It might affect our weekly prime market, but we will work around the builders."

Works will include a new roof with solar panels, water harvesting and reuse from the roof, new fencing and upgrades to cattle loading ramps and walkway rails.

Soft floors and a roof will improve conditions for cattle, as well as creating a dry environment, safer for handling cattle.

The Macedon Ranges Shire Council and federal government are funding the upgrade.

Macedon Ranges Assets and Operations director Shane Walden said about 25 jobs would be created during the construction works, and up to an additional 18 staff employed, to cater for increased demand.

Dean Coxon, Elders, Kyneton, said the upgrade would be "fantastic, not only in the winter, to keep the rain off, but also in summer".

"While we are a small centre, we have a niche market in that we can provide services other centres can't," Mr Coxon said.

Macedon Ranges councillor Roger Dukes said the upgrade was aimed at improving animal welfare, while the roof would provide sustainability, through rainwater harvesting and the solar panels.

"That gives the yards a life of another 50-80 years," Cr Dukes said.

"We are waiting for the tenders to come back in, and work on the redevelopment should start in the first half of the year."

The council would continue to operate the yards.

"The aim is to make it a focal point for the agricultural sector," Cr Dukes said.

"We are hoping to attract more sales and buyers, which will certainly allow the Kyneton yards to match prices that we see at other sites, like Pakenham, Ballarat and Bendigo."