Following the acquisition of the site, 148 East began the planning and design phase of the Iona Project. During the first half of 2022, specialist advisors were appointed to provide the engineering, technical and industry expertise needed to develop the integrated precinct.

From the outset, the project was designed as more than a conventional processing facility. The proposed precinct combines a modern abattoir with an adjacent feedlot, renewable energy generation, water treatment and by-product processing to create an integrated and efficient operation.

The early planning and design phase established the project's layout, engineering requirements and key design principles. This work laid the foundation for the detailed design, approvals and technical studies that have followed and continues to guide the development of the precinct today.