The plan to finally light up Lake Wendouree has moved to the planning permit application stage.
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Funding for the project was promised during the 2018 state election campaign, with the plan to improve safety for lake users backed by both major parties.
The $2.5 million project will eventually see 220 lights installed around the lake's 6km Steve Moneghetti Track, and eventually parts of Victoria Park in its second stage.
READ MORE: Discord over Lake Wendouree lighting options
The lights would all be programmed to turn on at 5.30am, and off at 9pm in non-daylight savings times and 10pm during daylight savings, according to a council media release.
A submission has now been lodged for a planning permit, moving the project, a priority for council's Lake Wendouree masterplan, to its next stage.
Demonstration light poles had been installed to gauge community feedback for the project and its design, and according to council, the poles will now be "moss green" to match existing lighting and street furniture.
The trial lights, near the Olympic Rings, will remain during the planning permit process.
"A summary report of all feedback received during consultation has been provided with the planning permit submission and Heritage Victoria application," the council media release states.
"Both the Planning Permit and Heritage Victoria permit process include a public notice and advertising period."
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It's not known when construction could begin for the project following the planning permit process.
Wendouree MP Juliana Addison said in a statement "she looked forward to the planning permit process being completed for the Lake Wendouree and Victoria Park Link Lighting Project".
While the lighting project would improve access to facilities and safety around the lake for people, particularly during winter months when the sun goes down earlier, as well as passive surveillance, the project has faced opposition from residents who say the lights will affect animal life, and there is "no need" for people to run after dark.
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