Anglesea’s former Alcoa coal mine could become a $150 million tourism attraction following a pitch from a UK-based charity this week.
The eco-tourism project would create more than 300 jobs and attract thousands of new visitors to Anglesea, the environmental charity behind the proposal, Eden Project, announced on Tuesday.
The charity expected to complete project within 18-24 months once it had gained the relevant planning and rezoning approvals.
Eden Project International Limited chief executive David Harland said the attraction would regenerate Anglesea’s environment, while “re-imagining what’s possible within Australian mine rehabilitation sites”.
The charity planned to present its concept to the Anglesea community over the next two weeks.
“It’s our goal to speak with as many people as we can … to energise and inspire them to help us develop the ideas for what could be their Eden Project in Anglesea,” Mr Harland said.
The project would transform the former coal mine into a destination for “immersive experiences“ which celebrated local ecology and sustainability, he said.
The project would showcase one of the most biodiverse regions in Victoria as a “must-see prelude” to the Great Ocean Road, Mr Harland said.
“This concept will be a global exemplar of sustainability and environmental excellence.”
Eden estimated the total cost of the project at £81.5 million, approximately AU $150 million.
In 2001 the charity transformed a former coal mine in Cornwall, England, into a colourful domed garden.
“Our experience in Cornwall shows us it’s possible to take a former mining landscape and create a place that celebrates our natural world and educates and entertains people from all walks of life, while providing a year-round positive impact for the community,” Mr Harland said.
Eden will begin public consultation in coming weeks in conjunction with Alcoa.
Alcoa asset planning director John Osborne said the concept “brought to life” guiding principles the company developed “in partnership” with the Anglesea community in 2016
“It presents an outstanding opportunity to showcase the site’s unique natural values while making a significant and lasting contribution to the region for generations to come.
“We look forward to receiving input from the Anglesea community and key stakeholders on this concept for the freehold mine site.
“Alcoa is tremendously proud to work with our colleagues from Eden who are recognised globally for creating landmark eco-tourism facilities and experiences.”
