Foreshore work waiting on funding

Busselton's foreshore revamp could start in July if a $6 million funding application gets the nod from the State Government next month.

Busselton Shire Council foreshore project manager Paul Crewe said the council had applied for funds through the Royalties for Regions program.

If this was successful, the first stage of the project could start next financial year.

“As soon as we get the funding we will start the work,” he said.

The first stage, earmarked for completion in 12 to 18 months from the project receiving funding, would include areas bordered by West and Queen Streets and Marine Terrace such as Signal Park.

This would include the relocation of car parks, a boardwalk promenade and public art works.

Mr Crewe said this stage would cost about $6.6 million, with the remaining amount to be sought through council’s next budget.

He said successful funding applications could also allow the relocation of the tennis club, pending the club’s approval.

The council will find out if the application was successful on June 30.

Mr Crewe said council could look at other State and Federal Government funding options if the application was rejected, but this would delay the start of the stage by about six months.

South West Development Commission CEO Don Punch confirmed it was working with the council to find ways to fund the project.

“This includes looking at options presented by Royalties for Regions, but not necessarily through the South West Regional Grant Scheme component of Royalties for Regions,” he said.

Members of the Busselton Foreshore Working Group met this week to discuss plans for the project.

Mr Crewe said the group, which put together the initial concept plans through community feedback, was being kept up-to-date through regular meetings and included representatives from Busselton Chamber of Commerce and Geographe Bay Tourism Association.