Shire granted $2.1m for infrastructure projects

THE Surf Coast Shire has received $2.1 million to put towards two priority projects that support local jobs, businesses and the resilience of local economies to help communities bounce back from the COVID-19 pandemic.

Part of the Morrison Government’s $2.5 billion Local Roads and Community Infrastructure (LRCI) program, the funding comprises $1.4 million for works at The Multi Arts Centre (MAC) redevelopment and $702,000 to build a roundabout at the intersection of Horseshoe Bend and Blackgate roads.

Federal Environment Minister Sussan Ley and Liberal candidate for Corangamite Stephanie Asher visited The MAC in late February to announce the funding for both projects.

The shire is finishing a fitout project at The MAC – which has been open for just under a year – and the extra funds will go towards backstage facilities, an acoustic ceiling and wall, loading facilities and a scene dock, a tech room, and a new heating and cooling system.

Surf Coast Shire mayor Libby Stapleton said the $1.4 million to upgrade The MAC further was welcome.

“Some among us know that this has been in the makings for maybe 10 years or close to it, and it’s just such a thrill to have this announcement.

“After a testing time through COVID, hopefully that we’re drawing towards the end of, places like these are going to be more important than ever in bringing us back together.”

Upgrading the intersection of Horseshoe Bend and Blackgate roads is the council’s highest priority road project, as it provides an important connection between Torquay, Barwon Heads and Armstrong Creek, is showing increasing volumes of traffic, and is a popular cycling route.

A recent road safety audit recommended a roundabout as the best long-term treatment, and the shire applied for the funding in December 2021.

Ms Ley said the LCRI program was a partnership between local governments and the federal government.

“In guiding your community’s wishes and saying this is what you believe will suit the community in the best possible way, by choosing those projects, you work very closely with the federal government.”

She said people had reached out for many things during the pandemic “but they always reach out to the arts”.

“So for communities that promote, rely on and want to see the arts flourish, I have great admiration for you.”

Ms Asher said LRCI projects were all about improving liveability and responding to what the residents had asked for.

“From basic drainage facilities to bike parks, seating and fitness equipment, a whole range of community members will benefit from this funding.”

For more information on the LRCI program, including the allocations for the $1 billion third phase, head to the Department of Infrastructure, Transport, Regional Development, and Communications website.