Western Victoria MP Gayle Tierney celebrated the beginning of the $15 million project that will support up to 260 retail, hospitality, tourism and business services jobs.

Warrnambool City Council and state and federal governments have each invested $5 million each for the revitalisation, which will deliver a range of streetscape improvements.

It includes widening footpaths, narrowing the road in parts, landscaping, increasing car parking, installing a roundabout and better managing the flow of traffic in the CBD. 

Works will begin on Monday, January 30 and will generate 396 jobs during construction, in addition to supporting 260 jobs upon the project’s completion, figures from the state government predict.

 “We want to ensure that Warrnambool retains its position as a dynamic and growing regional capital with the ability to expand and grow local businesses,” Ms Tierney said.

“Warrnambool businesses have a bright future with the CBD upgrade set to attract more people into town to shop, dine and be entertained.

“The CBD upgrades will provide existing businesses with the opportunity to expand while encouraging new businesses to take up tenancy and boost the already thriving tourist hub.”   

Stage one works include the central and northern blocks of Liebig Street between Koroit Street and Raglan Parade.

Public art will also be a feature.

Warrnambool City Council mayor Kylie Gaston welcomed the start of works.

“This is a very exciting day,” Cr Gaston said.

“It is certainly not a small project.

“We really do appreciate the commitment that the government has showed us.” 

From Friday, January 27 the Warrnambool taxi rank on Liebig Street will be re-located to Lava Street, adjacent to Thomas Jewellers.