Member for Western Victoria, Gayle Tierney today celebrated the beginning of Warrnambool’s CBD revitalisation project that will support up to 260 retail, hospitality, tourism and business services jobs.
The Andrews Labor Government is investing $5 million in the $15 million project, which will deliver a range of streetscaping improvements that better cater for the needs of existing and potential businesses.
Currently, Warrnambool’s main streets are not pedestrian-friendly which presents a missed opportunity for many retail and hospitality businesses, especially at the height of the tourist season.
It will improve parts of the city centre that cannot accommodate street trading by widening footpaths, narrowing the road in parts, landscaping, increasing car parking, installing a roundabout and better managing the flow of traffic.
The significant infrastructure works will generate 396 jobs during construction in addition to supporting 260 jobs upon the project’s completion.
It will attract private sector investment of an estimated $38.5 million in Warrnambool through new retail and trading opportunities.
Warrnambool’s population is growing rapidly and the city currently attracts over 700,000 visitors every year, drawn to the region’s unique coastal and cultural offerings.
The Labor Government is supporting Warrnambool City Council to deliver the project in partnership with the local community, whose input and recommendations have helped drive the process.
Quotes attributable to Minister for Training and Skills Gayle Tierney
“We want to ensure that Warrnambool retains its position as a dynamic and growing regional capital with the ability to expand and grow local businesses.”
“Warrnambool businesses have a bright future with the CBD upgrade set to attract more people into town to shop, dine and be entertained.”
“The CBD upgrades will provide existing businesses with the opportunity to expand while encouraging new businesses to take up tenancy and boost the already thriving tourist hub.”