A new roller coaster-like luge ride and major upgrades at Arthurs Seat Eagle have been approved - helping to create hundreds of jobs and help boost the local economy.
The Allan Labor Government has given the Arthurs Seat expansion project the green light following consultation and rigorous assessment - backing local workers, local businesses and local tourism.
The upgrades - including a new experience centre, observation tower and luge ride - will bring even more visitors to the region, supporting cafés, wineries, accommodation providers and small businesses right across the Peninsula.
The roller coaster-like luge ride will run between the Summit and Base Stations on a closed loop track, following the natural slope of the land to deliver an exhilarating experience for families.
More than 100 jobs will be created during construction and 120 ongoing jobs once complete. The facility already attracts up to 277,000 visitors a year - and these upgrades will bring even more people to the region.
The project was approved through the Development Facilitation Program, a streamlined pathway for priority projects that create jobs and grow the economy.
The projects underwent community consultation with nearby residents notified, on-site signage installed and newspaper ads placed encouraging people to have their say. Key agencies including DEECA, Transport for Victoria and Parks Victoria were consulted and did not object, subject to conditions.
As part of this process strict conditions will apply to the permit, including traffic management, environmental protections, and bushfire risk management as well as a Construction Environmental Management Plan.
Tourism is a big driver of the Mornington Peninsula's economy - over a six-month period the area saw more than four million visitors contributing $1 billion into the local economy.
Quotes attributable Minister for Planning Sonya Kilkenny
"The Development Facilitation Program backs the projects that back Victoria - projects that grow jobs and strengthen local economies - every single project goes through a rigorous assessment process."
"Arthurs Seat already draws hundreds of thousands of visitors every year. These upgrades will bring even more people through the doors of local businesses."
As stated by Minister for Sport, Tourism and Major Events Steve Dimopoulos
"Attractions like this showcase Victoria to the world - driving our visitor economy which supports 288,000 jobs across the state."
