A $2.3 million windfall will help Corangamite Shire widen the road to a popular holiday destination.
As part of the Local and State Government Road Safety Package announced in the 2019-2020 Budget, the Australian Government has committed an additional $100 million per year to the Roads to Recovery Program from 2019-2020.
Mayor Neil Trotter welcomed the additional funding.
“Previously we had been advised by the Federal Government of an allocation for Corangamite Shire of $9,142,219 from Roads to Recovery funding for 2019 to 2024,” Cr Trotter said.
“The allocation has now been increased to $11,427,774 for the five years. This works out to be $2.28 million a year for five years, compared to the original $1.82 million a year.
The additional $460,000 in funding for 2019-2020 will go towards extending the rehabilitation and widening of County Boundary Road East in Tesbury.
The road leads to the popular Lake Purrumbete Holiday Park and Lake Edge Café.
“Council had already allocated $200,000 for works, recognising the importance the two businesses play in supporting tourism in the region,” Cr Trotter said
“The additional funding will allow Council to complete a larger stretch of road widening, creating a safer experience for tourists and locals when using the road.
“Tourism is a one of the biggest contributors to the Shire economy and this project will support the businesses and improve safety for those using the road.”
Cr Trotter said The Roads to Recovery program provided a large portion of Council’s infrastructure Budget each year.
“We are grateful for the Government’s continued support through this program.
“The importance of the condition of our road network in relation to road safety and the local economy can’t be underestimated and we will continue to advocate for our fair share of funding in the future.”
