North East Link: Submitters get chance to voice concerns

Opponents of the North East Link will finally have the chance to voice their concerns to an independent panel. Here’s the latest on the project.

The Eastern Freeway at Bulleen Rd.

Opponents of the North East Link who made submissions to the environmental effects statement can voice their concerns about the $15 billion project at public hearings in Bulleen.

The hearings will run for about six weeks and give submitters the chance to speak about their fears about the impact on households, businesses and sporting clubs.

The EES states about 100 businesses will have to be acquired in Bulleen’s industrial precinct to make way for the Manningham Rd interchange, while Bulleen Park would also be lost.

It’s feared this would result in about 1200 job losses with most businesses arguing that relocating won’t be feasible, while sporting clubs face being left homeless. About 30 homes are also likely to be bought back for the road.

Losing Bulleen Park could leave sporting clubs homeless.

The State Government has established an independent panel to hear submissions, which sat for a directions hearing last Friday.

The hearing was attended by community and council representatives from Manningham.

Construction is also expected to have an impact on communities and last for about seven years.

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Manningham Mayor Paula Piccinini said people were “passionate about protecting the region”.

“They’re worried about the social, environmental and economic impacts the North East Link will have on our community,” she said.

Bulleen businesses have united to fight compulsory acquisition.

“The needs of our community and surrounding environment must be considered, before, during and after construction.”

Council’s legal team will present on the council’s EES submission, providing detailed information and robust data to highlight the specific impacts to Manningham.

The council has collaborated with neighbouring municipalities to represent communities along the interfacing boundaries of local government areas.

Work has been undertaken together on projects impacting Bulleen Park, Koonung Creek and the Yarra River corridors.

“While we have been working with neighbouring councils and share common concerns, we do have some significantly differing views relating to Manningham’s open space,” Cr Piccinini said.

“Where appropriate we will continue to work with other councils. Most importantly, we will keep fighting for the best possible outcome for our community.”

The hearings will be held from July 25 at The Veneto Club for about six weeks.