The Allan Labor Government is getting on with planning for a new pier at St Leonards on the Bellarine Peninsula.

The initial phase to prepare for the new pier is set to begin as part of a $46 million investment announced in the Victorian Budget 2023-24 for critical works at piers and jetties across the state including Warneet Jetties, Williamstown’s Workshops Pier and Dromana Pier.

St Leonards Pier is an important landmark for locals and visitors, but currently is only open with safety restrictions in place and it is now approaching the end of its design life.

The pier is a popular destination for the community and has several branches from which people can fish or simply enjoy the stunning views of the coast.

Preliminary work will involve developing a precinct plan that is considerate of the community’s needs, the local environmental and site conditions.

This work will inform a draft plan which will be released for wider community consultation in Summer 2023-24.

Victoria’s landmark piers and jetties are important focal points for local families, communities, businesses, boaters and anglers – this investment ensures they can be enjoyed by all for years to come.

It builds on the Labor Government’s previous investments for critical works at piers and jetties at Altona, Flinders, Hampton, Mornington, Lakes Entrance, McLoughlins Beach, Raymond Island, Rye, St Kilda and Williamstown.

Quotes attributable to Minister for Ports and Freight Melissa Horne

“We’re getting on with planning a new pier for St Leonards. It will be better than ever thanks to our ongoing investment in piers and jetties and will be a boon for Bellarine Peninsula residents and visitors.”

“Across the state we are continuing the revitalisation of our piers and jetties which will ensure they can be enjoyed by communities, boaters, anglers and tourists for years to come.’’

Quotes attributable to Member for Bellarine Alison Marchant

“St Leonards Pier is a jewel of the Bellarine Peninsula - this investment ensure it remains open for the community and the thousands of anglers and tourists who visit the town each year.”

‘The pier is an iconic and much-loved part of the St Leonards community. I am proud to see investment come to the town, with locals having input into the new pier’.