A footpath improvement program funded by the West Coast Council will provide a much-needed boost to employment in the region.

West Coast Council will next week commence recruitment for people to work across the West Coast to improve footpath infrastructure.

With a budget of $500,000 the project will commence in mid-November and those workers, contractors and suppliers affected by recent mine closures and scale-backs across the West Coast are encouraged to apply to join the program.  Successful applicants will be employed on a casual basis by West Coast Council.

“As leaders in the community and one of the largest employers in the municipality, Council is excited to offer multiple positions to displaced miners and other residents affected by the economic downturn in our community,” West Coast Mayor Phil Vickers said.

Work will consist of set-out and installation of kerb and channel guttering, access points, concrete footpaths and other duties as directed, within a variety of townships on the West Coast.

“We have a motivated and skilled team that routinely delivers this type of work however they will require support for this extended work program under this Council initiative,”  Council General Manager Dirk Dowling said.

Whilst the importance for assets and infrastructure to be improved is a key role for local government, West Coast Council also recognises it is equally important to support the West Coast community with the creation of these positions to implement the enhanced 2016/17 Capital Works program.

“The importance of Council’s capital works program, particularly this initiative, in driving economic development and confidence in the region should not be underestimated,” Mayor Vickers said.

Additional information, including application forms will be available at on Council's website. Applications must be received by 9am Monday 24 October 2016.