Federal Member for Gippsland Darren Chester says the new foreshore playground in Lakes Entrance is taking shape with most of the major structures in place and local crews working hard to get the job done before the busy holiday period.
Mr Chester has secured $20 million over several years from the previous Federal Government for projects in Lakes Entrance, which included the playground as well as Esplanade and Marine Parade improvements, the Old Slipway redevelopment, Jemmy’s Point reserve, Bullock Island bridge, and Krauatungalung Walk.
“By working with the community, we have transformed Lakes Entrance over the past eight years,” Mr Chester said.
“The previous Federal Government funded the foreshore playground project under the Local Roads and Community Infrastructure Program (LRCIP), which East Gippsland Shire Council is delivering.
“Not only will the playground provide young locals and visitors a great space that supports outdoor exercise, it will also link into other works such as the Krauatungalung Walk and improvements to the rotunda, making it a more usable space.”
Mr Chester said the foreshore playground in Lakes Entrance was just one of many projects made possible by LRCIP.
“The previous Federal Government created the LRCIP to assist local councils with funding for local roads and community projects that would otherwise take years to receive support,” Mr Chester said.
“The LRCIP has delivered dozens of projects across Gippsland, including playgrounds, pump tracks, recreation reserve improvements, community hall upgrades, road safety upgrades and walking trail improvements.
“It was a good funding program because all local councils received a funding allocation, and they were able to decide local priorities in consultation with their communities.
“Sadly, the Albanese Government has abolished future rounds of the LRCIP, which will make it difficult to secure a pipeline of community infrastructure projects like this one in our region.
“I will keep working with local councils to secure funding for projects that make Gippsland an even better place to live, work and visit.”
