Works are about to start on a new 1.3 kilometre pathway loop along the Barwon River in Winchelsea.
The works are due to start on Monday 17 February and be completed mid-year. The project will include the construction of a new pedestrian bridge at Hesse Street as well as a new boardwalk under the iconic bluestone Barwon River Bridge.
Surf Coast Shire Councillor James McIntyre, who represents the Winchelsea Ward, said it was an exciting project for Winchelsea.
"The 2015 Growing Winchelsea Strategy identified a 'Barwon River loop walk' as the highest infrastructure priority for the town. The new pathway will connect to the shops as well as the park."
"The Barwon River Reserve is such a special place and this project aims to reach a balance between preserving the natural beauty of the area and allowing residents to make more use of it."
Cr Heather Wellington, who also represents the Winchelsea Ward, said the project had involved extensive consultation with residents.
"We've heard from locals that they really wanted to highlight the natural values of the reserve. The path will mostly be gravel, designed to blend in with the existing landscape as much as possible."
"The Barwon River is a wonderful asset for Winchelsea and it's great to be investing in infrastructure that is accessible to everybody and encourages enjoyment of the environment and physical fitness. The pathway will become a key feature that is sure to get plenty of use by residents and visitors alike."
As part of the works the gravel pathway will be constructed along the riverbank on the Colac side from Willis Street to Armytage Street, and on the Geelong side from Railway Bridge to Hesse Street. A new concrete path will run through Lions Park and link with the existing pathway under the Highway bridges.
The $451,000 project is being funded by the Surf Coast Shire Council. The works are being carried out with approval from the relevant land and river managers and Heritage Victoria.
