Inverloch eager for Surf Parade path extension
Inverloch residents have been waiting three long years for a busy path to the beach to be finished, with one 62-year-old wondering if he will see the project completed in his lifetime. Here’s why they say it is urgently needed.
Bass Coast News
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An unfinished path leading to the beach must urgently be finished ahead of the busy holiday season, Inverloch locals warn.
Residents and holiday-makers have been waiting more than three years for the Surf Parade path to be extended beyond Veronica St.
Bass Coast Shire Council released a Masterplan of the project in 2017 which shows a proposed path that runs past the Inverloch Surf Life Saving Club, all the way to the corner of Toorak and Cape Paterson-Inverloch roads.
Three years on, locals are still waiting for an update on the extension, with many saying it’s “long overdue”.
Inverloch resident Cally Cadd said the path is “urgently” needed to provide safe commute for kids, families and visitors.
“Our population is growing fast and [we] urgently need a safe passage along this heavily used and dangerous stretch of road,” she told The Bass Coast News.
“70 per cent of our Inverloch community voted in favour of this … it’s long overdue”.
Kevin Griffin believes the footpath would be a great asset to the community.
“I’m approaching 63 years old now and I find myself wondering if I’ll see the Surf Parade footpath extension completed during my lifetime,” he said.
“I know some people are vehemently opposed to this project, mainly on environmental reasons, but I believe that view is seriously overstated and is not backed by scientific evidence”.
In a statement by the Bass Coast Shire Council, they said a Planning Permit amendment was submitted by council officers in April and was being considered by the Department of Environment, Land, Water and Planning.
“The Department has made some requests for additional information and officers are currently compiling this information for submission”.
“However, it should be noted that subject to approval being received, the timing of the works may be informed by COVID-19 restrictions enforced at the time”.
Ms Cadd said she would love to see the extension of the path continue to Eagles Nest and beyond to Cape Patterson.
“There are so many examples of environmentally sympathetic and purpose built paths and boardwalks around Australia that pay homage to our Indigenous history and respect and protect our precious environment,” she said.
“We are not just taking about one long ugly concrete path. The Bunurong Marine and Coastal Park is a world class destination, so why not responsibly plan, design and manage our environment, increasing visitation and growing community needs”.
brooke.grebert-craig@news.com.au
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