Major works part of a new vision for Lilydale

MAJOR road upgrades, level crossing removal, a new performing arts centre and a new railway station are part of a vision to revitalise Lilydale.

An artist’s impression of the view east along Main St if Lilydale Project proposals are adopted.

MAJOR road upgrades, removal of a level crossing, a new performing arts centre and a new railway station are part of Yarra Ranges Council’s vision to revitalise Lilydale.

The council is calling for feedback on 16 different projects and ideas short-listed for the long-term renewal of the town, detailed in a series of artists’ impressions.

The council started The Lilydale Project a year ago to create a shared vision with locals for the town’s future, and to advocate for State Government money for desired projects.

Ideas include the removal of the Maroondah Highway level crossing on Main St, along with beautification works and new retail and passenger facilities.

Now: view along median strip.

Proposed: War Memorial retained and new market square building.

A train station as part of the Cave Hill Quarry development is also suggested, and a new market square next to the town’s war memorial.

Multi-level, mixed-use development — possibly with apartments and offices — could be built on the Lilydale Showgrounds.

Council social and economic development director Ali Wastie said it had released artist impressions of their ideas to “help the community to envisage what Lilydale could look like in the future and spark ideas and conversations”.

She said the impressions were not confirmed plans and had been “developed to stimulate discussion”.

Now: Existing bus interchange seen from Maroondah Hwy.

Proposed: View from Maroondah Hwy into new landscape station forecourt and convenience retail shops.

“We are aiming to gather ideas and information from the community first before investment is made and we hope to end up with the best outcome for ratepayers as a result of this approach,” Ms Wastie said.

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She said the council based the ideas around three key areas — Maroondah Highway, Main St and Olinda Esplanade — as they were well known.

Residents have until September 6 to submit their thoughts at yarraranges.vic.gov.au

The project will also be the focus of a summit on the future of Lilydale at Box Hill Institute’s Lilydale Campus on September 21.