Department of Transport dodge questions on Broadmeadows train station release date

There’s still no word on a business case that could define the future of a Broadmeadows train station. But draft plans seen by Hume Council already “fall short” of community expectations, it says.

Broadmeadows Station is the centre of a new council campaign. Picture: Hamish Blair

A business case to revitalise the Broadmeadows train station is still in limbo.

The Department of Transport has dodged questions about the release of a planned business case outlining the station’s future.

The department’s deputy media director Lauren Hilbert refused to say when the business case would be released.

“We’re developing a business case for a potential future redevelopment of Broadmeadows train station,” she said.

Hume Mayor Carly Moore says she is disappointed that there has been no money for the redevelopment of the Broadmeadows Train Station. Picture: Rob Leeson.

“This business case is currently being finalised before being presented to Government.”

The State Government previously announced $4 million for a new northern entrance, refurbished toilets and upgraded lighting and CCTV – as well as $1.1 million for further improvements including signage, lighting and passenger amenities.

Hume Council has pleaded with the State Government to recommit to an $80 million plan to redevelop the area as part of the Fix Our Station campaign.

The site was set to undergo a major transformation in 2009, but the money was never spent after Labor lost the next election.

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The tired station is a frequent hotspot for crime, with more than 90 offences recorded within a year.

Social media commenters called on the State Government to “knock the whole thing down”, referring to the railway hub as a “hole” and “disgrace”.

Others asked to get rid of the dingy pedestrian tunnel, redevelop the offices and add greenery to the area.

“I call for the business case to be considered for the 2020/21 state budget,” Cr Moore said.

“It’s time for the project to be on the Victorian Government’s infrastructure agenda.”