Improvements to the Portland Foreshore Civic Precinct with a $250,000 Brumby Government grant will improve liveability for residents and the tourism experience for visitors, the Member for Western Victoria, Gayle Tierney MP said today.
“The Portland Foreshore Civic Precinct, also known as Nun’s Beach, overlooks the town’s harbour and is a prime location to view the whole bay,” Ms Tierney said.
“It is a central precinct which adjoins the CBD, hospital and a safe swimming beach, and it has great potential as a lifestyle asset for the community and an attraction for visitors.
“But it is generally undeveloped. Access is poor, and ocean views are restricted by vegetation.
“This $390,000 upgrade project will expand and improve the area to realise its potential.
“It will have enormous social and economic benefits and is going ahead with infrastructure funding from the Brumby Government’s Small Towns Development Fund providing 65 per cent of the total project cost.”
Works include the removal of exotic weeds from beach and cliff base; dune replenishment, re-vegetation and landscaping next to car park, whilst improving ocean views; refurbishment of showers, toilets and change rooms; installation of a shade structure, tables, seating and barbecue facilities; a foreshore boardwalk; and a car park upgrade.
“The Portland Foreshore Civic Precinct will boost the amenity, visual appeal and safety of Nun’s Beach to enable recreational, family and community activities,” Ms Tierney said.
“It will enhance liveability and civic pride by highlighting and encouraging enjoyment of local assets, and provide job opportunities for local contractors and suppliers during construction.
“Portland is recognised as the birthplace of Victoria’s settlement, and the bay is popular for a range of activities.
“A number of local events are held along the foreshore such as festivals, markets, carnivals and charity events.
“The Portland Foreshore Civic Precinct project is in keeping with the long-term vision of the Portland Bay Coastal Infrastructure Plan adopted by Glenelg Shire Council in 2007, whereby the proximity of Portland’s town centre, foreshore and international deep port creates a dynamic environment for recreational, community, fishing and boating activities on the bay, in harmony with the adjacent deep port.”
The Small Towns Development Fund was helping Victoria’s smaller towns create jobs, drive economic growth and improve community infrastructure, Ms Tierney said.
“So far, the Fund has contributed more than $46 million to 460 announced capital works projects throughout rural and regional Victoria with a total value estimated to be more than $93.6 million.