Frankston advocacy campaign ramps up ahead of state election

THE Speak Up for Frankston advocacy campaign has reached a staggering 35,000 people via social media.

Frankston councillors protesting on steps of parliament, they are calling for funds to tackle major issues holding Frankston back. Councilors (back) Glenn Aitken, Rebekah Spelman(Deputy Mayor) (front) James Dooley, Brian Cunial, Darrel Taylor (Mayor) and Colin Hampton.

THE Speak Up for Frankston advocacy campaign has reached a staggering 35,000 people via social media.

And Frankston Council plans to ramp up its initiative as the November 29 state election looms.

Mayor Darrel Taylor told the Frankston Leader advertisements for the campaign would be increased as councillors spruiked it to commuters at Frankston Train Station and at the farmers’ market.

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Cr Taylor said the campaign, which aims to force politicians to commit money to essential projects, had reached 35,000 people through Facebook and Twitter.

He said more than 700 people had completed an online survey with the majority indicating they wanted a new waste transfer station and Frankston Basketball Stadium expanded.

“Residents believe Frankston has not received a significant investment or real commitment,” he said.

“They are looking for a big investment that’s going to cement Frankston as a major activity centre. The road to Spring St runs through the middle of Frankston.

“If they (political parties) want to take government, they have to commit to the City of Frankston and make significant investment.”

Greater Frankston Business Chamber president Peter Patterson said traders wanted to see more investment in Frankston’s CBD.

Frankston mayor Darrel Taylor chats with local residents Tim and Barbara White about council’s pre-election advocacy program. Picture: Jason Sammon.

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Mr Patterson said it was essential for the train station precinct to be revamped so this in turn would kickstart development in the CBD.

Benefits would then flow on to the wider community, he said.

Local activist Hilary Poad said a new waste transfer station was essential.

“It’s basic ... it’s for everybody,” she said.

The previous waste transfer station was closed to make way for the Peninsula Link bypass.

There has been some funding commitments such as for improvements at local schools and sporting facilities, but as yet no candidates have committed to funding major projects.