By JOHN VAN KLAVEREN
HOPE for Portarlington’s safe harbour project has been renewed after State Government announced a $3 million redevelopment of the town’s pier.
Safe harbour and ferry group president John Rae said the redevelopment was an “essential” first step in the safe harbour.
“We’re delighted with the announcement but it’s just the start. We look forward to further announcements indicating what other parts of stage one will be funded during the election campaign.
“We need to have funding for stage one. The ALP previously announced a $15 million commitment for the safe harbour.
“It’s essential the safe harbour is completed, so this is an encouraging start.”
Mr Rae said the redevelopment was essential to the local aquaculture industry.
“It’ll be upgraded to carry 20-tonne vehicles, which will encourage further business development.”
Ports Minister David Hodgett said a new 175-metre-long, 4.5m-wide pier would be built alongside the existing pier.
“The project is ready to build and suitable contractors are invited to tender to deliver the works by mid-2015,” he said.
Mr Hodgett said the Government was partnering City of Greater Geelong on planning for the “longer-term redevelopment of the pier and surrounding precinct”.
Deputy mayor Bruce Harwood said the City would continue working with the Government on “broader redevelopment” of the pier.
“A redevelopment consistent with the Portarlington safe harbour proposal will stimulate investment in the commercial aquaculture industry, provide recreational boating facilities, create the potential for a ferry service and boost tourism for Portarlington and the Bellarine”, he said.
Parks Victoria’s master plan for the harbour includes additional commercial and recreational berths, boating servicing and fuelling and capacity to accommodate a ferry service.
The redevelopment could also include tourist-related commercial facilities and additional landscaping to complement works in Newcombe St.
Mr Hodgett also announced a $270,000 St Leonards pier rejuvenation was nearing completion.
