The redevelopment of one of Australia’s most popular tourist destinations is moving to the next stage.
The Victorian Government has announced it will move towards tendering for builders as the Twelve Apostles Precinct Redevelopment project ends its consultation phase.
Part of the Geelong City Deal to revitalise the region and city’s economy, the project has undergone three months of community consultation.
Development Victoria is managing the redevelopment and canvassed 270 residents for their input.
While there was consensus on the need for a visitor experience centre and to improve accessibility and safety, further consultation was also supported before more development on the site.
“The visitor experience centre will encourage people to stay longer and explore more of the region, which is expected to generate hundreds of millions of dollars each year for economy,” Member for Corangamite Libby Coker said.
“The project will help stimulate local businesses and communities all along the Shipwreck Coast, while supporting local jobs during construction and once the site is operational.”
The Eastern Maar Aboriginal Corporation was also involved in the engagement process as project partners.
A welcome garden and a rooftop garden lookout have been incorporated into the plans.
The Federal and State governments have contributed funding for the Geelong City Deal with the Victorian government adding a further $18 million for upgrading accessibility to the visitor centre.
Another $24.5 million has been provided to support sustainable tourism in the area with a new lookout for the Saddle part of the Twelve Apostles Precinct and a pedestrian bridge at Port Campbell Creek.
A lookout at the Blowhole at Loch Ard Gorge is also being built.
The Victorian Government said it would call for tenders early next month.
