SEVERAL Dimboola streets will receive a makeover, following a $408,700 funding announcement by the State Government.
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The grant paves the way for Hindmarsh Shire Council’s $416,700 Dimboola Streetscape Project to begin.
Council will contribute the outstanding $8000.
Member for Lowan Hugh Delahunty announced the funding at Dimboola on Wednesday.
Lochiel Street will be redeveloped between Lloyd Street and Old Weir Lane as part of the project.
A new alfresco dining area is planned for the corner of Lloyd and Lochiel streets.
The project will also enhance access to the Nine Creeks reserve.
“It will deliver new footpaths, kerbing and parking areas in Lochiel Street, as well as landscaping works on both sides of Lochiel Street between Lloyd Street and Chapel Street,” Mr Delahunty said.
Council released its final concept plans for the Lochiel Street redevelopment in December.
Submissions close at 5pm today, after which council will develop detailed design and construction plans.
The State Government grant will also benefit one of the town’s entrances.
“Dimboola’s eastern entrance will receive vital infrastructure improvements with the construction of kerbing, footpaths and landscaping on the south side of High Street, mirroring works previously completed on the north side of High Street,” Mr Delahunty said.
The grant comprises $320,000 from the State Government’s $1-billion Regional Growth Fund and $88,700 from the Country Roads and Bridges program.
Hindmarsh Mayor Rob Gersch said the programs were vital funding sources for rural municipalities and thanked the government for support.
“We look forward to the continuation of funding,” he said.
Past Hindmarsh Mayor Darryl Argall said the street beautification concept was initiated almost 10 years ago, while he was in council.
He was one of a handful of Dimboola residents to hear the announcement in sweltering weather.
“It is good to see the funding come to fruition,” he said.
Dimboola woman Mary Clarke and her husband Ken also attended.
The couple own the Star Theatre, which is within the Lochiel Street redevelopment zone, and the Mason Clarke Preserving Company.
“It’s good to see the government investing in Dimboola. I’d love to see the Regional Growth Fund put towards encouraging businesses in small towns,” she said.
Hindmarsh east ward councillor Tony Schneider said the project would benefit Dimboola residents and encourage tourism.
“Days like these highlight the need for attractive places for people to escape the heat,” he said.
But while the project will beautify some areas of town, a Dimboola resident, who did not wish to be named, drew attention to fenced-off areas along Lloyd Street including the burnt-out Dimboola Hotel and Rotary Square, which had been fenced off because of structural damage at the neighbouring butcher building.