Funding for coastal safety upgrades

The water access ramp used by thousands of people during Lorne's Pier to Pub will have a non-slip surface applied under state government funding. Photo: SUPPLIED

FOUR greater Geelong and Surf Coast beaches have been included in the state governments latest million dollar funding round designed to improve safety and access to the coastline.

Beach access improvements have been slated for Ocean Grove and Marengo and safety assessments alongside planning work for future improvements will be undertaken at Corio Bay.

At Lorne repairs to the ramp used for water access by over 5,000 swimmers during the Pier to Pub will result in new concrete surfacing and the installation of secure non-slip matting and signage.

A total of 16 projects along Victoria’s coastline have been announced as recipients of the $1.1 million Coastal Public Access and Risk Grants program for 2022-23.

Environment Minister Ingrid Stitt said the funding would ensure that people can continue to access their favourite beaches safely.

“The marine and coastal environment is regularly changing due to the impacts of climate change, so it’s critical that we work together to identify and mitigate risks so our coastline can be protected for generations to come,” she said.

Ms Stitt said the grants program was designed to fund a range of projects along the state’s coastline, such as:

· risk assessment and management plans for safer access

· repair or replacement of paths, stairways, boardwalks and access ramps

· installation and improvement of public safety signage and access barriers as well as viewing platforms and lookouts.

For more information visit: marineandcoasts.vic.gov.au/grants/coastal-public-access-and-risk-grants