Reminder - community input invited for Paynesville projects

Council is reminding community members officers will be in Paynesville this Friday and Saturday to get your feedback on two concept plans for proposed upgrades in two areas:

Paynesville’s waterfront is one of the town’s drawcards for residents, visitors and boaters.

Council officers and members of the project reference groups will be available to talk about the projects on Friday 4 December from 2.00 to 3.30 pm or Saturday 5 December from 9.30 to 11.00 am.

You can meet them at either Slip Road near the boat ramp or at Progress Jetty by the jetty.

The Slip Road site is approximately five hectares of Crown Reserve foreshore on McMillan Strait, one of Victoria’s busiest recreational waterways.

It adjoins the Gippsland Ports Boatyard and sits opposite a range of boatbuilding, maritime servicing and related businesses.

General Manager Assets and Environment Fiona Weigall said proposed upgrades include seawalls, boardwalks, boat ramp improvements, flood protection works, landscaping, and a refresh for the amenities block.

“We also plan to add new berthing facilities which will include more short-term and annual berths, a berth for boats for sale and a working berth where low impact boat repairs can be undertaken,” Ms Weigall said.

The Victorian Government through the Department of Jobs, Precincts and Regions has provided a grant of $250,000 for planning and design as part of its tourism bushfire recovery fund.

The Victorian Government has also committed to a further $1.1m for stage one of the physical works.

The other project slated for Paynesville will see changes to The Esplanade foreshore area to make the space more attractive for people to relax and enjoy the area.

“The main elements of the plan include relocating the foreshore playground, better defined car parking areas, new paths and seating, improved foreshore facilities including around the craft centre and Progress Jetty; and better access to the foreshore,” Ms Weigall said.

“This project is part of the Paynesville Foreshore Management Plan which was prepared with considerable local input. Council will make a contribution to start the Progress Jetty foreshore works while also seeking funding contributions from other sources.”

Council wants to hear your thoughts on our plans for both these projects. You can view the plans and give your feedback on the ‘Your Say East Gippsland’ website, https://yoursay.eastgippsland.vic.gov.au or by visiting the Paynesville Service Centre at 55 The Esplanade.