Council reaffirms commitment to Port Campbell town centre

Published on 24 November 2020

Port Campbell’s town centre and foreshore redevelopment is the top priority for Corangamite Shire’s new Councillors.

The Councillors recently gathered in the seaside town for a progress report on the Shire’s most significant infrastructure project.

Mayor Ruth Gstrein reaffirmed Council’s commitment to the plan which will futureproof the town ahead of projected increases in international tourism.

“Major improvements to the streetscape and foreshore were identified as a priority in the Shipwreck Coast Master Plan,” Cr Gstrein said.

“It is our top priority and we are actively seeking $10.6 million from the State Government towards the $15.6 million project.

Cr Gstrein said the upgrade was aimed at encouraging longer visitor stays, which would have flow-on benefits for the Shire economy.

“Port Campbell’s location makes it the logical place to connect Great Ocean Road visitors with other attractions our Shire has to offer further inland,” Cr Gstrein said.

“Ensuring a world-class experience that motivates them to stay longer, and explore more, will help share the tourism spending around.

“The previous Council, of which I was a part, adopted a Design Development Plan in August, following extensive public consultation. It’s ready to go. We just need to secure the funding.”

Coastal Ward Councillor Jamie Vogels said a lot of the town’s infrastructure was tired and old and needed to be brought up to date.

“It’s important to note that the designs protect what the locals love about the town: foreshore views, the iconic Norfolk Island Pines, fishing access, and ease of getting around businesses and public spaces.

“As domestic COVID-19 restrictions are lifted, the focus in the immediate future will be on Victorian and interstate tourism. It’s important the town can meet the demand when international visitors return.

“I’m really pleased to have come onto Council with this project at an advanced stage of planning.

“There’s widespread community support after numerous surveys, workshops and public meetings, and public feedback on a couple of different drafts. Now we just need the funding support to get the work done."