SEVEN key areas along the Shipwreck Coast are targeted for attention in the state government’s masterplan for the coastal region.
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Bay Of Islands, Peterborough, London Bridge, Port Campbell, Loch Ard Gorge, Twelve Apostles/Glenample, and Princetown are highlighted as focal points.
General improvements to information presentation, access, traffic flow for cars, bikes and pedestrians, and environmental protection along the entire 28 kilometres of coast and surrounding hinterland is a major part of the plan, but the seven precincts receive the majority of suggested improvements.
Recommendations for Peterborough include a “park and ride” hub with a visitor centre on the eastern side of the Curdies River bridge, while Princetown would be revamped as “an eco-adventure destination” utilising the Gellibrand River and forming a walking trail junction.
The masterplan aims to reinforce Port Campbell’s role as the heart of the Shipwreck Coast through a new “pedestrian-focused town green”, a more prominent visitor centre, and increased walking tracks around the town.
The Twelve Apostles Glenample Precinct, which includes Gibson Steps and Glenample Homestead, is proposed to feature new short walks, sheltered views of the Twelve Apostles, new eye-catching stairways, a regional providore, children’s farm and kitchen gardens showcasing local produce.
The masterplan makes repeated references to a Great Ocean Road “parkway”, which is not defined but appears to refer to a widening of the road to allow increased foot, bicycle and shuttle bus traffic. It also includes a Twelve Apostles Trail, starting at the landmark and reaching Port Campbell before heading north.
Corangamite Shire mayor Jo Beard welcomed the masterplan and said she hoped it would lead to state and federal government funding for projects such as the 12 Apostles Trail, the Port Campbell streetscape renewal, and a more prominent Port Campbell visitor centre.
“These projects are all critical to the success of the (masterplan), which will help create jobs, increase overnight stays and boost the economic impact from tourists visiting this iconic region,” Cr Beard said.
