Council welcomes river enhancements

The Government today confirmed it will provide $5.06 M towards a total of $10.12 M worth of key projects in Albury that will create a vibrant riverside experience while also supporting economic and tourism growth within the community.

AlburyCity Mayor Kevin Mack said the Government’s support would help to ensure that the Murray River experience comes alive for residents and visitors.

“The funding makes a reality of a dream to create something even more special on our river by strengthening the relationship between the community, the CBD and the river itself,” he said.

Central to the works will be the development of a $6.65M riverside precinct near the Albury Swim Centre. Jointly funded by AlburyCity and the State Government, this project will include the construction of an all-access boardwalk along the river’s edge, a floating pontoon for water craft, landscaped viewing platforms, a major upgrade to parking around Australia Park and improved pedestrian access to the Oddies Creek Playground.

Other developments under the funding package will include additional pathways along the Wagirra Trail, an Education and Experience Centre at Wonga Wetlands, riverside park upgrades, and environmental works to protect a section of the river subject to erosion.

“These projects will provide a huge economic boost to our city,” Cr Mack said. “They’ll also lead to a healthier, more vibrant riverside and create more focal points for locals and visitors to enjoy the beautiful river that defines us as a community.”

Planning and detailed design will commence in July 2018 with the range of individual projects to be commissioned by a target date of June 2021, all going to plan.

The Government’s Murray River Experiences funding also provides for important improvements for Federation and Berrigan councils, uniting all three communities in a range of enhanced experiences along more than 60 kilometres of the river.