Liberal plan for fernery and trams

THE Liberal Party has promised to boost tourism for the Lake Wendouree precinct should they form government this month.

The pledge was made to the tune of $7 million for an extension to the tramline, the completion of the Ballarat Botanical Gardens’ Gothic Fernery, and a feasibility study into the Ballarat Tramway Museum.

Liberal candidate for Wendouree Samantha McIntosh said the precinct is an important feature of the city.

“Lake Wendouree is an iconic part of Ballarat, and this commitment will only make the entire area better for both locals and tourists,” Ms McIntosh said.

“Our plan will create local jobs, and deliver a massive boost to our local economy during construction and beyond.”

Stage one of the proposed tram works would extend the track by one kilometre.

It’s estimated the project would provide 30 construction jobs and a $1.8 million boost to the local economy.

The original gothic fernery was demolished in 2019, and the $1.7 million stage one developments of the revival was completed last year with the delivery of stage two works yet to be confirmed.

Cindy McLeish, Shadow Minister for Tourism said the Liberals intend to expand Ballarat’s tourism infrastructure.

“From our $27 million commitment to Sovereign Hill, to today’s $7 million commitment for the Lake Wendouree precinct, our plan to boost tourism in Ballarat is clear,” Ms McLeish said.

“This builds on our comprehensive plan to deliver real solutions to kickstart Victorian tourism and jobs again.”