A $210,000 Brumby Government grant to enable the construction of a new streetscape in the township of Hawkesdale was announced today by the Member for Western Victoria, Gayle Tierney.
This project will reinvigorate Hawkesdale by providing improved infrastructure and social interaction spaces in the business area.
“Work will focus on the public space surrounding the town hall and streetscaping and beautification along the township’s main street.
Project components will include:
• Providing an outdoor area to promote entertainment and outdoor eating;
• Providing a central paved gathering space, extending across the service road linking with the public hall and surrounding space;
• Constructing an east–west pedestrian link, deterring use of a dangerous crossing at the intersection of Dawson and Spring streets;
• Introducing parallel parking on both sides of the street;
• Improving pedestrian links, including one mulit-use access point;
• Renewing access steps in the road reserve at the northern end of the township; and
• Improving street lighting.
Ms Tierney said the improvements would focus on attracting through-traffic to stop and shop, and encouraging flow-on trade by improving access and visual appeal.
“As Hawkesdale has a population of 400, the upgrades will greatly assist the small community to provide economic benefit to local business owners,” Ms Tierney said
She said the project would give travellers between Warrnambool and the hinterland areas greater incentive to stop in the town and utilise the new and upgraded facilities.
“Additionally, the proposed wind farm developments in the Hawkesdale area will significantly increase the number of people travelling through the township,” Ms Tierney said.
“The new streetscape will enable the Hawkesdale residents to take full advantage of this economic opportunity.”
Ms Tierney said the Victorian Government grant for the $280,000 project would be provided to the Moyne Shire Council through the Small Towns Development Fund.
“This project typifies initiatives supported by the Small Towns Development Fund, which are making a big difference to towns in provincial Victoria,” Ms Tierney said.
“The Small Towns Development Fund is helping Victoria’s smaller towns create jobs, drive economic growth and improve community infrastructure.
“So far, the Fund has provided $40.6 million towards 425 projects worth $88.4 million, right across provincial Victoria.”
