ECHUCA is one step closer to having a new Riverfront Entertainment Precinct, with detailed designs for the precinct now underway following the recent announcement of State Government funding.
Council, who will contribute $110,000 toward the detail design project, received $150,000 in State Government funding.
The project has three components, detailed design for the Aquatic Reserve, detailed design for an extension to the Cargo Shed on the Echuca Wharf and detailed design for an existing train carriage to provide a food preparation area and toilets. A business case will also be completed to understand the proposed development’s economic and visitor benefits.
Whilst the project only includes detailed design at this stage, the works will inform the costs, identify staging options of works, to support future funding applications.
Campaspe Shire Council Mayor, Cr Adrian Weston said, “The project will enhance the visitor experience and optimise the potential of each site to support events, weddings and festivals.”
In 2015 council prepared a draft concept plan for the Aquatic Reserve. This was put out for community comment with the final concept plan endorsed in February 2016.
“The concept plan outlined an exciting vision and array of infrastructure and environmental improvements to improve the site and its use,” Cr Weston said.
“Some of the outcomes and initiatives included plantings to support the ecological habitat, grassed ramps to the site, improved access across the rail line, upgraded toilet and amenity facilities, drinking fountains, low-level site lighting and more.”
The detailed design for the Cargo Shed will include an approximate 24m extension to the north side of the building matching the existing wall and roof line.
The last component of the project will see an existing train carriage converted to provide a suitable food preparation area at one end and compliant unisex toilets at the other, both to support functions and events on the wharf.
“It’s great to see a project underway that supports the Port Precinct Plan, a precinct of high community interest,” Cr Weston said.
The detailed design project is expected to be completed by the end of October 2019.
