Stage one of Echuca’s riverfront project is progressing well, with redevelopment of the kiosk to be completed shortly.
Campaspe Shire Council Mayor Cr Adrian Weston said plans are now well underway for stage two of the project, redevelopment of the riverfront which focuses on improving accessibility and the visual appearance of the riverfront.
“It’s exciting to see this large-scale project moving ahead which supports the vision in the Port Precinct Plan – ‘a place to take your time, relax and enjoy yourself’.”
“Planning approvals have now been received from Murray River Council and Campaspe Shire Council and a building permit (Vic) and construction certificate (NSW) for some of the structures on the site are now being applied for,” Cr Weston said.
Once the kiosk redevelopment is completed the building will continue to be fenced and when stage two works start, the entire site will be fenced.
“This will mean the kiosk itself won’t be operational until the whole project is completed,” the Mayor added.
“We can however start the leasing process during stage two works, so that once the site is opened up, the kiosk will ready for operations.”
Main elements of stage two include:
- Construction of sealed roadways into the riverfront from Watson Street for short term drop off, pick-up and boat servicing parking
- Construction of a network of compliant footpaths throughout the site, linking to Watson Street
- Construction of a footpath connection to Murray Esplanade and the port precinct
- Establishment of soft landscaping, including grass areas, mulch under trees, gravel plaza area, and plant trees for shade
- Rearrangement of car and bus parking along the Watson Street frontage
The $5 million project has been jointly funded with the federal government contributing $2.6 million, state government $1.3 million and council $1 million.
Commercial boat operators will continue to operate from the site until stage two construction starts with alternate mooring locations agreed to support all boat business operations during the works.
A tender has been recently advertised for stage two works.
“Plans are to finalise the tender in July to allow onsite works for stage two to start in August,” Cr Weston said.
“By early next year we will have a redeveloped riverfront, an area to enjoy the natural surroundings of the river, while supporting access to commercial houseboats and paddlesteamers, and providing universal access across the riverfront and precinct.”
