Coasts and parks are clear priorities
The 2018-19 State Budget has revealed the government’s environmental priorities with coasts and parks clear winners.
Extensive work will be undertaken to ensure the state’s coastline and beaches are kept pristine with $5.2 million allocated over three years.
The funds will go towards sand replenishment on metropolitan beaches, research and development associated with sand retention, seagrass meadow restoration, establishing artificial reefs and creating wetlands and stormwater harvesting schemes around Gulf St Vincent.
National Parks across the state will also receive an on-ground boost through the addition of 20 extra park rangers at a cost of $7.5 million over four years.
The creation of the 1500-hectare Glenthorne National Park will receive $10 million in funding over four years for walking and bike trails, picnic areas, campgrounds and 200 hectares of native revegetation.
Another key election commitment to open-up reservoirs for public use will receive $5 million of funding over two years.
One of Adelaide’s premier walking trails from Waterfall Gully to Mount Lofty Summit will receive a further $2.9 million to improve durability and increase public safety.
The Wirraparinga Loop Trail in Brownhill Creek Recreation Park will also undergo upgrades thanks to $100,000 in funding.
The State Government will also implement the Greener Neighbourhoods program which will provide $500,000 a year to local metropolitan councils to enhance community streets.
The budget has also allocated $1 million to help preserve heritage-listed properties. Funding of $500,000 over two years will establish a heritage grant fund and $500,000 will be spent on restorative works at Ayers House.
