A new $2.5 million visitors' hub at Wonga Wetlands is forecast to emerge from the middle of next year after the project was approved on Monday night by Albury Council.
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The works, which will see the demolition of existing buildings apart from a 19th century cottage, are the biggest since the former farm was transformed into a wilderness in the 1990s.
They involve a theatrette with a capacity for 150 visitors, display and dining areas, and public toilets and picnic tables.
Councillor David Thurley lauded the improvements.
"This is a great opportunity, Wonga Wetlands is becoming increasingly popular for people visiting the town, it's one way to showcase some parts of our natural environment for our school kids and others," Cr Thurley told Monday night's gathering.
"We've been a bit limited by the facilities there at present and from the early design possibilities, it looks a great opportunity and I really commend this project."
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The city's deputy chief executive business, growth and community Tracey Squire was unable to put a precise starting date on construction because of the need to complete Aboriginal heritage work.
"It may still be some time before we actually physically start works on the ground and it would be toward the middle part of next year, but it really depends on the timing of all the different elements that need to come together," Ms Squire said.
Approval for the project comes as more progress on the Regional Deal is outlined.
Federal, NSW and Victorian governments will collaborate on "community spaces" along the Murray River as the first concrete realisation of the deal.
An announcement on what exactly is involved is expected soon.
There has been a push for a tourist park for holidaymakers along the Murray River from Albury councillor Murray King.
Since August consultation with more than 70 people has been occurring in private.
The need to improve cross border regulations and connectivity are among the concerns relayed to government officials.
There has also been a push to develop new industries by using the Border's comparative advantages and technology and calls to bolster tourism and sport as well as improve land use.
Victoria's Regional Development Minister Jaclyn Symes said citizens had produced "practical, exciting ideas and opportunities to make Albury-Wodonga an even better place to live".
"After an incredibly challenging year, this Deal will set a clear blueprint to help the region recover and prosper over the next decade," Ms Symes said.
"I'm really excited to keep working with the community, local councils, the NSW government and the federal government to support Albury-Wodonga's growth."