FUNDS for the proposed Western Link Road will help boost council plans for the development of Ballarat West Growth Zone, Ballarat City Councillor Noel Perry has said.
In its second budget, the state government yesterday allocated a further $35.5 million to the road project.
The money comes after $2.5 million was provided in the government’s first budget last year.
“It is a critical announcement as to the future of the Western Link Road and its importance and its links to the development of the Ballarat West Employment Zone,” Mr Perry said.
“This funding will only see construction of phase one of the road.”
Mr Perry, who handles the council’s growth and development portfolio, said the final aim was to take the Western Link Road from the Sunraysia Highway and Western Highway intersection through to the Glenelg Highway, ultimately linking it with the Midland Highway.
“I am very pleased with the announcement which is a confirmation of the pre-election commitment by the present government,” he said.
“Council will be seeking further funding for the extension of the Western Ring Road from Sturt Street West along Dyson Drive, ultimately to the Glenelg Highway.
“But I understand that funding would be at least in the percentage of $60 million to $80 million, which is a big ask.”