By JOHN VAN KLAVEREN
A LONG battle to extend Queenscliff ’s ferry terminal car park is over, with State Government announcing $1.3 million in funding for an upgrade.
The $2.65 million project includes work on the ferry terminal seawall and rock groin and addition of 135 car parks.
Environmentalists had attacked the car parks and upgraded walking paths components of the upgrade, fearing encroachment on dunes and removal of natural vegetation.
The battle went to an independent panel, which supported the upgrade but disallowed annexation of a parcel of Crown land included in the initial plan.
However, Bourough of Queenscliffe’s council referred the matter to Planning Minister Mathew Guy who overrode the panel and approved the proposal.
Peninsula Searoad Transport chief executive officer Matt McDonald said he was relieved the nine-year battle was over.
“As an organisation we can now think long-term, knowing we’re going to be around for a long time and focus on creating a world class ferry service,” Mr McDonald said.
“It’s a positive outcome, it’s great for Queenscliff and offers certainty around the infrastructure to locals, commuters and tourists.”
The upgrade will include a public bus stop, dedicated taxi bays, pedestrian facilities and designated road access to the terminal for emergency vehicles.
Member for Western Victoria David Koch said the upgrade would create new employment, business and tourism opportunities along the Bellarine Peninsula.
“Up to 750,000 passengers use the Queenscliff-Sorrento ferry service each year, making it Australia’s busiest car and passenger ferry route,” Mr Koch said.
“Unfortunately, the supporting landside infrastructure here at the terminal is ageing and in order to keep the terminal operational, significant upgrade works needs to be undertaken.
“This project will ensure the long-term viability of the ferry service and stimulate new business opportunities at both the Queenscliff and Sorrento terminals as well the surrounding businesses relying on the ferry service.
Mr Koch said the project would create five new full-time jobs upon completion, with 12 full-time positions created during construction.
A further 25 indirect jobs would flow once the project was completed, he said.
