Member for Gippsland East, Tim Bull, joined members of the Swifts Creek community to officially celebrate the completion of the town’s CBD Renewal project today.

Representing Deputy Premier and Minister for Regional and Rural Development Peter Ryan, Mr Bull said Swifts Creek had received $250,000 from the Victorian Government to support the $663,000 streetscape redevelopment.

“The new and improved main street includes rows of heritage light poles, better pedestrian paths, parking areas, improved signage and new outdoor furniture,” Mr Bull said.

“The project also included the planting of up to 1,200 trees and shrubs, including the Chinese Pistachio trees that now decorate the town.

“The new street trees, garden beds and grassed areas are expected to improve over time to provide shade for pedestrian walkways and outdoor furniture and improve the overall look and feel of the town.”

"In addition to the completion of the streetscape works we are also celebrating the official opening of a new skate park facility in the town,” Mr Bull said.

“The $25,000 skate park, which has been funded by the East Gippsland Shire Council, will provide a fun and healthy new activity for the town’s young people and an additional draw card for visitors.”

Mr Bull said these important improvement projects would help boost the town’s economic and social viability.

“The local area is currently experiencing an increase in visitation numbers with around 1,000 vehicles a day passing through Swifts Creek via the Great Alpine Road.

“With a refurbished, upgraded and improved streetscape and new skate park facility we can expect that even more tourists will stop and explore this beautiful town and area.”

Mr Bull said the Victorian Coalition Government was committed to working in partnership with local councils and communities to create jobs, increase prosperity and improve the quality of life for people living in regional and rural Victoria.