Construction to begin on the new Dell

CONSTRUCTION is underway on a $200,000 ‘Little Dell’ in Clifton Springs following years of discussions.

Residents voted for the new ‘Springs Dell Boardwalk’ in a bid to preserve the history of the town once known as a lively spa resort.

Discussions first began between the Drysdale Clifton Springs Curlewis Association (DCSCA) and the City of Greater Geelong in 2016.

Two years later, they successfully submitted the design proposal to the Victorian Government’s Pick My Project initiative.

The $30 million initiative gives Victorian communities the chance to decide and vote on much needed projects in their local area.

The DCSCA has continued to work with the city to bring the project to life, with construction now having started.

The association’s president Mercedes Drummond said the community was working to ensure the Dell would be there for generations to come.

“Our community values the Dell and wants to preserve its uniqueness.

“Erosion has been an ongoing issue, which is why the DCSCA has been proactive in instigating projects which improve access yet are mindful they do not compromise the historical significance or its ecological fragility.”

The new Dell will be constructed out of recycled material in accordance with the city’s aspiration for a circular economy.

Once complete, the boardwalk will allow for greater public access to a difficult “pinch point” while preventing the trampling of heritage protected relics from the former mineral springs.

The new boardwalk will provide opportunities for additional signage informing visitors of the cultural significance of the area while encouraging more activities promoting health and well-being.

Ms Drummond said the new boardwalk was a step in the right direction, but more was still to be done.

“We believe that there are still other opportunities for this area to be further enhanced.

“The DCSCA has been in discussion with the city to investigate other possible options.”

The construction of the new Dell will be completed before Christmas, with the signage to follow after the holiday season.