Construction on new public facilities on the St Leonards foreshore will begin in November and are expected to be completed by February next year.
The $430,000 project is being funded by the federal government and delivered by Geelong council, while the construction contract has been awarded to Geelong-based company Hanlon Industries.
The facilities will include a new shelter with accessible barbecue, accessible picnic seating, two cold water outdoor showers and two open air changerooms, as well as a new concrete path and landscaping.
A new public toilet was also initially proposed as part of the project, but its installation has been deferred as cost escalations continue to affect council projects.
Federal Member for Corangamite Libby Coker said the new facilities were a major win for the St Leonards community.
“Like the rest of the Bellarine community, I look forward to seeing this project get underway later this year, with much-needed further upgrades to come,” Ms Coker said.
“Once complete, the project will deliver better community infrastructure for locals and visitors in one of our region’s most beautiful coastal towns.”
Bellarine Ward councillor Jim Mason said the facilities would make the area a more vibrant and community-friendly space.
“Community feedback has been instrumental in shaping this project, and we thank those who have contributed,” Cr Mason said.
“We look forward to seeing those contributors and many others enjoying the facilities once they’re open.”
Mayor Trent Sullivan thanked the federal government for the funding.
“These facilities will help make the foreshore a more appealing place for locals and visitors to spend time,” Mayor Sullivan said.
“I’m sure it will draw more people to the area to enjoy the spectacular view across the bay.”
