With Melbourne’s CBD in plain sight, Whittlesea’s fast-growing northern ’burbs have plenty of bus stops, but no buses to stop.
And the train line goes only as far as South Morang.
Now, Whittlesea council and community lobbyists are pushing for the tracks to return again to stations farther north, and for buses to turn up at the stops that were put in by the estate developers.
“We’re perpetually advocating for funds from the state and federal governments,” mayor Rex Griffin said.
“Without action, the municipality faces significant detrimental impacts on business, the community and the environment.”
Whittlesea is one of Australia’s fastest-growing municipalities, increasing by about 8000 new residents every year.
Social media sites reflect the widespread frustration of residents caught between a rock and a hard place. Even failed Scullin Katter’s Australian Party candidate Dom Greco has joined the Facebook campaign.
“The car parks along Hurstbridge, South Morang and Craigieburn lines are all the same because we have no Mernda rail link,” Mr Greco posted on Facebook.
“Most or all, the parking and traffic woes of the northern suburbs could be fixed with this [rail link]. Both Liberal and Labor promise the world but never deliver. I live here and have had enough.’’
One commentator suggested many home owners were selling up because of the lack of infrastructure.
Another said: “So, unless you drive to the bus stop, take a bus to the train, or take a taxi from home to the train, or get a lift, it is not possible for residents who live beyond walking distance from South Morang station, to travel by train after 7am.
“With the state election coming in November next year, it is time both the state Liberal and Labor parties told us what year we can get on a train at Mernda. Currently, neither has a policy on this vital project.”
The council has released a draft integrated transport strategy that identifies actions needed over the next five years. “We need greater investment into alternatives to car use, such as bike paths and train stations – both essential for mobility and particularly for young people,” Cr Griffin said.
Forums on Whittlesea’s transport strategy start next week and the draft strategy is on the council’s Community Voice website. The first session is on October 18 from 10am to noon, with another on October 24, 5.30pm-7.30pm, at the council offices, 25 Ferres Boulevard, South Morang.
