Echuca's Riverboat Dock is opening
Published on 21 April 2020
The $5 million redevelopment of Echuca’s kiosk and Riverboat Dock area is soon opening to the public after more than one year of transforming the site into an accessible, visually attractive community space.
Campaspe Shire Council’s Chief Executive Officer, Declan Moore said that when the temporary fencing comes down at the end of the month, the public will be able to see the area now reflects the Port Precinct Vision of ‘a place to take your time, relax and enjoy yourself’.
“The popular location will be the perfect spot to enjoy the natural setting of the port precinct, with improved access to the paddlesteamers and houseboats that will operate from the site,” Mr Moore said.
The project has included:
- Redevelopment of the kiosk
- Construction of sealed roadways into the riverfront from Watson Street for short term drop off, pickup and boat servicing parking
- Construction of a network of disability act compliant footpaths throughout the site, linking to Watson Street
- Construction of a footpath connection to Murray Esplanade and the port precinct
- Establishment of soft landscaping, including grass areas, mulch under trees, gravel plaza area, and planting of trees for shade
- Rearrangement of car and bus parking along the Watson Street frontage
“Some minor works will still take place following the opening, including a final coat of paint on the kiosk, along with some garden and lawn maintenance,” Mr Moore said.
“While there will be newly laid lawn areas that will be fenced off to give the grass time to establish, all of the formal walking paths through the site will be open.”
Once the area is opened, Watson Street, from Law Court Place to Hopwood Place will be one way. This will improve traffic flow and access for service vehicles to the boat area.
The $5 million project has been jointly funded with the Federal Government contributing $2.6 million, Victorian Government $1.3 million and Council $1 million.
“When the COVID-19 pandemic has settled and restrictions are lifted, Council will progress tenancy applications of the new kiosk café area,” Mr Moore said.
“The upstairs café area has an unbeatable view of the river-based precinct and the ground level will continue to provide storage for canoes / kayaks and space for the local boat operators.”
“While the public will be able to enjoy the new space, everyone is reminded to please continue to obey the current COVID-19 stage 3 restrictions.”
Works to redevelop the Port of Echuca wharf walkway and retaining wall, located north of the wharf at the site of the existing pop up park, are still progressing.