As part of the Liberals and Nationals’ Local Shopping Strip Recovery Plan, Koo Wee Rup’s main shopping strips will receive $200,000 towards upgrades and amenity improvements.

After the devastating impact COVID restrictions had on small businesses, especially in Victoria’s smallest communities, the grant plays an important part in getting them back on their feet.

The Koo Wee Rup Township Committee has been advocating for funding to be able to tackle the run-down street by installing benches and trees, and placing LED lights in the town’s clock tower.

The commitment is part of the Victorian Liberals and Nationals’ $30 million Local Shopping Strip Recovery Plan, which will support local communities across the state to recover and rebuild.

The Local Shopping Strip Recovery Plan will help revitalise Victorian shopping strips with funding for projects including supporting local activation events such as street fairs, or improvements such as outdoor dining spaces, planting vegetation and trees, employing local mural artists and designers, and lighting and footpath upgrades.

Member for Gembrook and Candidate for Berwick, Brad Battin, said Koo Wee Rup small businesses would benefit from the improvements.

“The beautification works will encourage residents and visitors, as well as those passing through, to spend more time and money with the strip’s traders.”

Liberal Candidate for Bass, Aaron Brown, said Koo Wee Rup’s businesses were still reeling from the impacts of Covid.

“Covid took its toll on business confidence and the livelihoods of many, and I’m sure today’s announcement from the Liberals and Nationals will be greatly welcomed.”

The Nationals Candidate for Bass, Brett Tessari, said the plan gives the Koo Wee Rup community certainty.

“Our communities and local businesses need something to restore their confidence after some of the longest lockdowns and restrictions, this funding goes a way to provide that.”