Macedon Ranges council will provide $10,000 in funding to undertake works required to reopen the Romsey-Lancefield trail following community pressure.
In a meeting on May 24, council voted to create a new capital works project to install signage, fill the depressions and scoured areas, after damage was sustained in the October 2022 floods.
Council said it will work with a locally based contractor to complete the initial repairs and aim to have the trail reopen by July.
Acting director assets and operations Simon Finlay said these works would allow the path to reopen, but additional funding would be required to bring the path back to pre-flood standards.
“Officers are seeking $10,000 to reopen the Federation trail between Lancefield and Romsey which has been closed since October 2022 due to the flood damage,” Mr Finlay said.
“Bringing the path back to pre-flood standards is required and will require significant further funding. Officers are seeking appropriate opportunities to source and secure this funding.”
In the agenda, council said the full cost of restoring the trail is estimated to cost $80,000, and it is seeking external funding from the state government for the full restoration costs.
Romsey resident Kevin Fothergill, who spoke about the track damage to the Star Weekly at the start of May, said he is happy council is seeking funding for the repairs.
“We’re very happy that the funding [is being sought]… especially at this time of year when you are trying to fit in your exercise around the rain,” Mr Fothergill said.
“It will be great, and great for exercise.”
Zoe Moffatt
