Pier consultation opens in St Leonards

BELLARINE MP Alison Marchant is urging residents to give feedback during consultation on the redevelopment of St Leonards Pier.

Ms Marchant, who spent time discussing the topic with residents on Saturday, says a draft plan released by Parks Victoria, incorporating findings from previous studies and early stakeholder engagement, is now open.

“St Leonards Pier is not just a pier, it’s a gathering point for the local community and for many it comes with cherished memories and time with family and friends,” Ms Marchant said.

“I encourage locals and those who are interested in the pier, to provide their feedback to the plan, to ensure we capture all the ideas that are important to the community.

“I know locals and visitors are passionate about their pier and I want to see as much feedback as possible, so we get the best outcome for the St Leonards township.

Ms Marchant said the proposed pier had a focus on safety and accessibility catering to both recreational and commercial users.

The plan also proposes improvements in pier infrastructure to support a variety of activities ranging from swimming to diving.

The Sustainable Local Ports Framework currently identifies St Leonards as one of Victoria’s six priority port areas as the Victorian government commits $46 million to critical works on local ports.

“I want to make this clear – costings for this project have not been finalised because the design has not been finalised,” Ms Marchant wrote on social media on Saturday.

“This plan is a draft that gives the community the opportunity to have their say. No one is suggesting these draft plans are the final design.

“I want this project to be amazing. I want the community to get a new pier they will love just as much as this one.

“But I need your [the community’s] help. I need everyone to give their feedback. I need you to tell Parks Victoria exactly what you’d like to see.”

To view the draft plan and provide feedback, visit the Parks Victoria website.