Streetscape improvement works to help revitalise Lismore’s town centre will be carried out with the help of a $90,000 Victorian Government grant announced today by the Member for Western Victoria, Gayle Tierney.
Visiting Lismore, Ms Tierney said the grant for the $180,000 Lismore Township Revitalisation project would be provided to Corangamite Shire Council through the Small Towns Development Fund.
“Lismore is as a popular rest stop for motorists travelling along the Hamilton Highway on the inland-coast and east-west routes,” Ms Tierney said.
“Holiday coffee break and rest facilities are offered on the wide median strip in the town centre.
“This township renewal project comprises a series of infrastructure improvements concentrated in the town centre.”
The works include improved parking, improved accessible pathway links to commercial and recreational areas, upgraded public access and safety, and improved public conveniences on the median strip.
Other improvements include upgraded rest areas, new street furniture, landscaping, interpretive signage and public art.
Ms Tierney said the proposed works were part of a shire-wide program of streetscape improvements aimed at revitalising Corangamite Shire’s small towns to encourage commercial growth and community vitality, making them better places to live, visit and do business.
“The works will improve Lismore’s amenity and character, help maximise business and tourism opportunities, provide a pleasant living and commercial environment for the community and enhance local pride, Ms Tierney said.
“The works will also improve links to local assets (shops, post office, recreation ground, public toilets) and enhance the town’s reputation as an appealing rest stop.”
Ms Tierney said the Small Towns Development Fund was helping Victoria’s smaller towns create jobs, drive economic growth and improve community infrastructure.
“The Government is providing an additional $25 million to the Small Towns Development Fund and extending it for five years through Moving Forward, the Government ‘s $502 million plan to make Provincial Victoria the best place to live, work, invest and raise a family,” Ms Tierney said.