Banyule Council concerned over lack of consultation for Fitzsimons Lane works

Plans for a major upgrade to an Eltham road have been backed by Banyule Council. But it has joined the chorus about concerns on the project, saying it had been shut-out of talks on the works.

The Fitzsimons Lane and Main Rd roundabout. Picture: Rob Leeson.

Banyule Council has backed works to upgrade Fitzsimons Lane but raised concerns over a lack of consultation on the project.

The council confirmed that unconditional planning approval for the works was being sought by Major Roads Projects Victoria which would allow it to have complete control over the project.

The upgrade is part of the State Government’s $2.2 billion key roads plan in Melbourne’s north and south-east.

Under the plan, traffic lights would replace roundabouts at Main Rd and Porter St, while bus lanes would be converted to all-vehicle use between Porter and Foote streets.

There will also be upgrades to the Foote St intersection, new traffic lights at the Leane Dr intersection, new walking and cycling paths and safety barriers.

Construction will start in 2020.

Acting Mayor Cr Alison Champion said the council had been asked to provide a letter of support for the project.

“(The) council has called for and supports an upgrade to Fitzsimons Lane for better traffic movement and the safety of motorists,” she said.

“We do however have concerns that consultation with (the) council and the community has not been undertaken on the detailed design.”

Nillumbik Councillor Peter Clarke wants more say on the Fitzsimons Lane upgrade.

Nillumbik councillor Peter Clarke last week claimed the authority wanted “unfettered control” over the project.

Cr Clarke said the roads authority would not be required to apply for any planning permits and be exempt from significant heritage overlays in the project space.

“The government is essentially wanting to be the responsible authority which will allow no third party appeal rights against whatever they decide to do with this huge road project,” he said.

Banyule Ratepayers Action Group Member David Mulholland said he supported the upgrade but the authority needed to be upfront about any environmental impacts the project would have.

“My concern is all the trees in Fitzsimons Lane Reserve, we want consultation about any community impact it might have,” Mr Mulholland said.

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MRPV project director Dipal Sorathia rejected claims there had been no community consultation.

“We’ve heard from hundreds of residents as well as local councils including Nillumbik, Manningham and Banyule as we refine the designs of the Fitzsimons Lane upgrade,” he said.

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