Longer pier locked in for St Leonards

A LARGER pier is on the way for St Leonards, with the Victorian government unveiling new designs for the popular Bellarine location.

Minister for Ports and Freight, Melissa Horne, joined Bellarine MP Alison Marchant today to announce the final designs for the new St Leonards Pier.

The new design features a larger footprint that will be built parallel to the existing structure, preserving the unique maritime character of the area while supporting future recreational needs.

Key features in the new design will include a widened pier head and pier entry, new finger jetty, mooring ground and a low landing.

A new disability compliant ramp will be included, giving users access to the lower landing.

Sirens Boathouse and the Kiosk will remain a central focus in the new design, with the widened pier improving access.

“I understand how important this project is to the community,” Ms Marchant said.

“Which is why I have worked closely with Parks Victoria to ensure the project reflects the needs and expectations of the community and is delivered to a high standard that will serve the area for years to come.”

Environmental protection will be prioritised during the rebuild and care will be taken to avoid sensitive seagrass areas and minimise impacts on marine life.

More than 800 community responses went into creating the designs for the pier, with key themes including a desire to preserve the character of the existing structure.

“After listening to feedback handed down in consultation, we developed a design that will serve the community and ensure the pier remains a safe, accessible and vibrant part of the local port for years to come,” Ms Horne said.

From October 20, community members are invited to share ideas on the pier’s external design features and furniture.

The survey will be available from parks.vic.gov.au or from Ms Marchant’s office in Leopold.