- Published:
- Tuesday 8 March 2016
St Arnaud businesses received a welcome boost today with the Andrews Labor Government announcing a $300,000 grant to improve access for customers and visitors to the town’s CBD.
In making the announcement, Minister for Regional Development Jaala Pulford praised the resilience and tenacity of Victorian communities hit hard by drought.
The Government is fast tracking infrastructure projects such as this to create jobs and drive much-needed economic growth in drought-affected communities through its $500 million Regional Jobs and Infrastructure Fund.
The Government is working closely with councils in drought-affected areas to bring forward a number of projects which will strengthen their economic and social base.
Northern Grampians Shire Council will use the grant to undertake priority works to improve access to businesses in St Arnaud’s CBD, including better pedestrian paths, parking facilities, kerb drainage and landscaping.
A crossing on Napier Street and footpaths will be redeveloped and disability access within the town will also be improved.
The planned access and amenity improvements are recommendations of the council’s Urban Design Framework, aimed at reversing a decline in retail activity in St Arnaud. The works will enhance the town’s liveability and attract more locals and visitors to shop and stay in town.
In November 2015, the Government provided $1 million for infrastructure, events and planning initiatives in the drought-affected shires of Buloke, Loddon and Yarriambiack.
Quotes attributable to Minister for Regional Development Jaala Pulford
“Through our $500 million Regional Jobs and Infrastructure Fund we are creating jobs, connecting communities and kick-starting economies in regional Victoria.”
“We are backing community infrastructure projects to improve access for customers and visitors to St Arnaud’s CBD. This is about improving the experience and attraction of St Arnaud.”
“The Andrews Labor Government stands with drought affected communities. We are investing in our regional communities because we know the effects of drought are not limited to the farm gate.”