Winchelsea Common clean-up to begin

WORKS to clean up the Winchelsea Common and revitalise the space for the community were scheduled to begin this week.

The Department of Environment, Land, Water and Planning (DELWP), in conjunction with Surf Coast Shire, has appointed Environmental Earth Services International to clean up parts of the site and reestablish public use across the reserve.

The Common, formerly the site of the gun club and go-kart club, was closed in 2012 after contaminants, including lead shot, clay target fragments and plastic casings, were found across the site.

Works are expected to take about three months to complete, weather depending.

DELWP senior environmental planner Sally Patterson said the works, developed in accordance with the Winchelsea Common Future Use Plan, included removing contaminants at the site, constructing an all-access loop walk, installing fencing around protected plant communities and creating a fenced off-leash area for dogs.

“The plan was shaped by more than 100 submissions from the local community, ensuring the Common provides the community with a highly valued public reserve that protects its environmental values.

“Initial works will involve a small trial to determine the best method to remove contamination from the site, followed by high power vacuuming for areas with significant vegetation and scraping and sifting the soil for area of low value vegetation.

“Once complete, the Common will be a space for the community to participate in recreational activities while appreciating the site’s high ecological values.”

Cr Heather Wellington from the Surf Coast Shire said the start of works was a significant milestone.

“We know that Winchelsea people have wanted the Common re-opened, so we’re pleased to see that works will be under way shortly.

“I am sure our local community will be excited to see the revitalised Common take shape, particularly given their passion and strong engagement during the feedback period.

“When complete, I look forward to people of all abilities having the opportunity to take in the site’s natural beauty.”

For more information about the Winchelsea Common Future Use Plan, head to engage.vic.gov.au/winchelsea-common.