THE National Party has pledged to inject $2.75 million into Halls Gap if the Coalition is elected to government in November.
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Member for Lowan Emma Kealy pledged an investment into Halls Gap’s future as she announced money towards building a new road and bridge over Stoney Creek.
“This will unlock prime commercial land in Heath Street and ensuring the Village Centre remains the retail heart of Halls Gap,” Ms Kealy said.
“This investment will significantly improve safety for local residents and tourists by easing traffic and pedestrian congestion in the Village Centre.”
Northern Grampians Shire Council, in consultation with Grampians Tourism and the broader community, have developed a masterplan for the future development of Halls Gap.
Grampians Tourism chief executive Marc Sleeman said there were “exciting” projects planned for the Grampians region.
“Data shows our region is in a really strong position. Visitor numbers are up and visitor expenditure is up,” he said.
Mr Sleeman said the Grampians was one of seven regions across the state that had experienced growth in visitor numbers during the past financial year.
The Nationals’ plan aims to open underutilised land in Heath Street for future development by building a new bridge over Stoney Creek, connecting Heath Street with Grampians Road.
The bridge will create a major arterial road and a direct route for vehicles travelling through Halls Gap.
Mr Sleeman said the proposed plan would set a foundation for further investment for retail and accommodation.
“Greater offerings for the destination will then enhance and continue to grow the length of stay in region by visitors. With more on offer, we will have more reason for people to stay in the region and that will increase the expenditure,” he said.
It is estimated the project will stimulate more than $30 million of economic activity and create about 100 new jobs for the Grampians region across the next 10 years.
Halls Gap is listed as the main tourist hub in the Northern Grampians Shire Council, generating in excess of $224 million annually for local businesses and the broader community.
The State Election is on November 24.
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