State Lib leader Matthew Guy pledges to match $225m slated for Baxter rail plan by Federal Government
THE Frankston train line would get twin, electrified tracks to Baxter if the Coalition wins the November 24 Victorian election.
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THE Frankston train line would get twin, electrified tracks to Baxter if the Coalition wins the November 24 Victorian election.
But the Labor State Government has refused to answer whether it will match the $450 million Liberal pledge.
In a huge boost for the region, state Liberal leader Matthew Guy last week promised to match the $225 million already earmarked for the rail extension by the Federal Government.
The Liberals’ plan includes new train stations near Frankston Hospital and Langwarrin and a major upgrade of the Baxter station. Currently commuters have to board infrequent diesel trains at Frankston to get to Baxter, with only a single track of rail line.
Federal Government commits $225m for Baxter rail project
Duplication of rail line to Baxter a step closer thanks to $4m study into the work
Matthew Guy supports duplication, electrification of rail line to Baxter
Frankston Leader has joined Frankston Council in its ‘Extend the Frankston Line’ campaign urging government to fund the essential infrastructure project.
Mornington Peninsula Shire Council mayor Bryan Payne said the project would provide a massive boost for the region and a much-needed upgrade to public transport.
Committee for Greater Frankston president Fred Harrison said he was rapt with the announcement.
“Extending the line will radically transform public transport in our region, driving job creation, getting cars off congested roads, freeing up crowded car parks, and making better use of public and private assets like Frankston Hospital and Monash University,” he said.
Mr Guy said the investment was essential for both the region and greater Melbourne.
“We need to ensure Melbourne has a 21st century rail network that connects suburbs,” he said.
“We need to get Victoria moving.
“A new station at Frankston East will improve access to Frankston Hospital for patients and families as well as health professionals.
“It will also and help students get to the local campus of Monash University.”
Frankston state Labor MP Paul Edbrooke said he was not confident that the state Liberal Party would deliver.
“It is hard to trust the Liberals after they promised to build Doncaster rail, Rowville rail and a rail line to Avalon airport when last in government but did not build anything,” he said.
“And now they are promising to build another project without knowing the actual cost.
“That is why the State Government is currently completing the business case and $1 million has been spent ensuring the new Frankston station is ready for Baxter electrification.”
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