Public transport, sustainability and planning key issues for Brunswick

CANDIDATES coveting the Brunswick state seat have flagged public transport, sustainability and planning as their priorities in a widespread on-the-spot survey.

Locals and concerned citizens march along Sydney Road Brunswick to protest against the East West Tunnel and call for better public transport investment. (Photo Andrew Henshaw)

CANDIDATES coveting the Brunswick state seat have flagged public transport, sustainability and planning as their priorities in a widespread on-the-spot survey.

Public transport was also the key concern among Pascoe Vale candidates, revealed when Leader conducted questions without notice to canvas state election candidates on Friday.

Eight candidates nominated for the Brunswick seat, traditionally a Labor stronghold.

Brunswick state Labor MP Jane Garrett is campaigning on education, health care and planning.

“I think Brunswick has borne its fair share of population growth, we have a lot of old industrial sites that have been transformed into apartments through urban renewal. While people I think accept that we need to carry our fair share of the growth, we don’t want to be overburdened because it is impacting on our liveablility through traffic and services,” she said.

“I think it is important we maintain the character and heritage of low-rise streets.”

“I think it is important we maintain the character and heritage of low-rise streets.” - Brunswick state Labor MP Jane Garrett.

Greens candidate Tim Read said political integrity was a key issue, in addition to building heights, sustainability and public transport.

Liberal candidate Giuseppe Vellotti, a Camberwell resident, believed the East West Link would ease congestion, allowing more trains to run efficiently.

“It would move congestion out of Brunswick, allowing rail to operate more effectively and efficiently,” he said.

Only Family First candidate Frank Giuerlo failed to return the Leader’s calls.