Improved train services along the south-west line, further redevelopment of Warrnambool Base Hospital and construction of a new library-education centre have been listed by the city’s leader as priority projects.

Cr Neoh said while the Coalition had indicated support for the base hospital project, all other initiatives had been ignored by both government and opposition in favour of high-profile pledges in Ballarat and Geelong.

“If you look at it in report card-style, the Coalition gets a tick for the base hospital and Labor gets a question mark or a cross,” the Warrnambool mayor said.

“They both get a cross so far for the Warrnambool-Geelong line and improving services as outlined by the Great South Coast Group. They also get a question mark or a cross for the integrated learning area and library in the South West TAFE building.

“These are three key areas for Warrnambool and the south-west given we have only a few weeks before the election.”

Premier Denis Napthine indicated in September that his government would consider funding the stage two redevelopment of Warrnambool Base Hospital if re-elected.

The proposed project would involve building a new emergency department and operating theatres on the north-east corner of the Koroit Street campus at an estimated cost of at least $100 million.

Cr Neoh attended yesterday’s Liberal Party launch in Ballarat and called on the opposition to match the $100 million fund for regional cities.

“This is fantastic news for regional cities and in my role as Regional Cities Victoria chairman, I call on the Labor Party to match this initiative,” he said.