A MILLION-DOLLAR redevelopment of the Black Hill lookout will form part of a City of Ballarat master plan to transform the iconic reserve.
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Plans to create a new viewing structure, redevelop the upper car park and provide new public facilities will go before the council on Wednesday.
Overall, the draft Black Hill master plan, prepared by the City of Ballarat, could cost $2.2 million.
It focuses on restoring the reserve to its former glory.
Mountain bike trails on the slopes will be improved and wetlands could be developed in the lower-lying areas of the reserve if councillors vote in favour of the plan.
The upper car park of the lookout will be redeveloped with space for 30 vehicles and buses, along with new barbecue shelters and picnic facilities.
Black Hill resident Leigh Cassidy said that if approved, the funding would be “fantastic” for a “pretty tired” reserve.
“The lookout area is pretty ordinary really ... I’m not aware of there being a toilet up there at all, there’s no paved area, not much of anything really,” he said.
Mr Cassidy said the draft plan, which was open for public consultation in February, showed how inconsistent the City of Ballarat’s community engagement was.
“If the council can go to that length to come up with a consultation process for the reserve, why haven’t they been able to do that with the (Black Hill) pool?”
Mayor John Philips said the road would remain restricted because of safety concerns.
william.vallely@fairfaxmedia.com.au