Five new lookouts will be built in Melbourne’s north Plenty Gorge Park as part of a major trail along the Plenty River.
Energy, environment and climate change minister Lily D’Ambrosio revealed the final designs for the Plenty River Trail linking the Bundoora RMIT campus and Doreen.
The design of the $19.3 million trail forms part of the state government’s $315 million Suburban Parks Program.
In addition to the five new lookouts, two new bridges will be built over the river and a third, Maroondah Aqueduct Pipe Bridge will be refurbished.
The trail will also connect to the Mernda Railway Station and Hawkstowe Railway Station through a combination of new and revamped paths.
The Labor government is also funding an $800,000 upgrade to Hawkstowe Picnic Area and $383,500 to refurbish Nioka Bush Camp to improve accessibility to the park.
Energy, environment and climate change minister Lily D’Ambrosio said the new trail would allow people to explore and appreciate nature in the area.
“This new trail is going to be a great asset for our community, enabling all of us to appreciate the wonderful native wildlife and plants that call Plenty Gorge Park home.”
Yan Yean MP Danielle Green said: “Seeing these designs finalised is another welcome step towards realising a really exciting project that will connect our community with great opportunities for cycling, walking and exploring the natural world.”
Bundoora MP Colin Brooks looks forward to visiting the new trail once it’s complete.
“The Plenty River Trail is such a great place to escape the city and enjoy nature, and I look forward to exploring the new trails with all the locals and visitors who use the park.”
