Tara Murray
Transport infrastructure and services are top of Whittlesea and Hume councils’ state budget wish list.
The budget, which will be held on November 24, was delayed due to COVID-19, with both councils have a number of projects they are advocating for.
At the top of the list is transport projects.
Whittlesea council administrators Lydia Wilson and Bruce Billson spoke with Star Weekly about what they wanted addressed in this year’s budget.
“Transport infrastructure is a very big issue and we’ve been collaborating really well with the state government on some major road infrastructure projects to support mobility,” Mr Billson said.
“Some major projects that are underway and we would like those extended, particularly for the east-west connections in which we aren’t strong and there’s some opportunities to improve bus services as well.
“At a community infrastructure level, there are a number of joint programs … We’ve got some major sport and leisure recreation facilities projects on our radar screen.”
Mr Billson said infrastructure renewal in some of the older parts of the municipality, infrastructure in the growth corridor, health infrastructure and expanding the TAFE network out to places like Mernda are other things they’re looking at.
Ms Wilson added: “We’ve got a host of major community hubs and sporting and recreation facilities, so they’re really critical and we want to do some further work which is a priority moving forward, in relation to affordable housing.
“Also the north-west city deal. While the Beveridge Intermodal Freight Terminal does not itself require significant contribution by other levels of government, there may be some connector intermodal type issues that will require state government commitment.”
Hume council communications, engagement and advocacy director Roslyn Wai also highlighted a number of transport projects.
Transport projects on Hume council’s list include the redevelopment of Broadmeadows train S\station, duplication of Mickleham, Somerton and Sunbury roads, the Bulla Bypass and Outer Metropolitan Ring Road, bus services and new train stations in growth areas.
“Hume City Council continues to advocate to the Victorian and federal governments on behalf of our growing community to secure investment for critical projects that will lead to positive outcomes and improve our city,” she said.
“Council’s ongoing advocacy will help address needs in areas such as education, employment, affordable housing options, environmental conservation, and health and wellbeing, and ensure that people from all backgrounds, abilities and cultures feel supported and have access to services.”
The council is also advocating for additional schools and funding for health services in growth areas, ongoing funding for 15 hours of preschool, continued funding for the growing suburbs fund, additional stimulus funding for community infrastructure including sports facilities and funding to support the development of Hume Central in Broadmeadows.
