RURAL communities in Cardinia Shire have not been forgotten in the new council budget.

That’s the message from the council which said towns outside the growth corridor would benefit from projects proposed as part of the 2007-08 draft financial plan recently released by Cardinia Shire.

The population explosion around Pakenham, Officer and Beaconsfield often creates a perception in the community and around the council table that other parts of the shire don’t get the same attention.

Not so, said council CEO Garry McQuillan, with several projects bringing life to rural communities around the shire.

A multi-purpose pavilion for Bunyip is a step closer with $100,000 being committed to develop plans for the stadium. Bunyip will also benefit with a further $90,000 being spent on further streetscape works in the town.

A community centre is also on the drawing board for Bunyip with $350,000 earmarked in the 2008-09 budget.

Cochrane Park in Kooweerup will benefit from a $200,000 allocation to relocate picnic facilities and provide new walking paths.

Rural roads will be receiving a cash injection of funds with $3.2 million going towards improving Heads Road, Hope Street, Manks Road, Thirteen Mile Road, Tynong North Road, Tonimbuk Road, Split Rock Road and McGregor Road.