This afternoon the State Government announced $750,000 funding for the Ringwood Lake to Creek Trail, which will link bicycle and shared use paths from the Mullum Mullum Creek through to the Ringwood Lake.

The project which will be delivered in partnership with Maroondah City Council will improve the pedestrian and cycling networks along Larissa Avenue. The existing powerlines will be replaced with underground power, improving the amenity and aesthetics of the street.

In addition water urban sensitive design will be utilised to improve the quality of water entering our stormwater systems and reflect the history of the former Sandy Creek, which flowed through the area.

Unfortunately funding has not yet been announced for the installation of a pedestrian crossing along Maroondah Highway to provide a safe point to cross the Highway between the new path and Ringwood Lake. This crossing is required to complete the Lake to Creek Project and improve access to the recreational amenities within Ringwood Lake. It is hoped that once the Lake to Creek Project is complete that the importance of this crossing will be realised and delivered by VicRoads.

Construction on the Lake to Creek Project, is expected to begin early next year and will include the installation of underground powerlines along Larissa Avenue. This project will improve the amenity of the area and encourage walking and cycling through Ringwood and I welcome the announcement of this funding.