North East Link approved by Andrews Government
The North East Link has been given the green light by planning authorities, but two key recommendations have been refused. This is why.
VIC News
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The North East Link has been given the green light by planning authorities, but the Andrews Government has rejected two key recommendations.
Transport Infrastructure Minister Jacinta Allan today announced the project had passed the crucial stage after months of community feedback and public hearings.
A range improvements will now be considered in an effort to limit impacts on the environment and the local community.
But two key findings, that the tunnel be extended and that Simpsons Barracks be declared a “no go zone”, were refused.
Ms Allan said extending the tunnel would have meant more potential acquisitions and could add another two years to the project.
“When you consider that already the North East Link will be constructing the longest road tunnels we’ve had in Victoria … Those impacts didn’t outweigh the benefits,” she said.
“Cost is also a factor as well but I want to emphasise that cost wasn’t the only factor.
“There are sometimes decisions that have to be made about where disruptions occur.
“(Simpsons Barracks) was in the overall scheme of things the most appropriate location for some of these above ground works.”
The Andrews Government has accepted recommendations to work closely with businesses and residents impacted by construction.
Businesses in the Bulleen Industrial Precinct will receive one-on-one assistance to help transition their companies to new locations.
Residents living near major construction sites may also be eligible for voluntary property acquisitions.
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North East Link chief executive Duncan Elliott said the authority would now start working to implement the findings of the report.
“We accept the findings made and yes they are workable,” he said.
Mr Elliott said his team was still working through the findings but there was currently no need to increase the projects budget.
“We have the budget we’re working with and we are working with our bidders on that,” he said.
But City of Boroondara Mayor Cynthia Watson said she was deeply disappointed by the response.
The municipality is part of an alliance with Banyule, Manningham and Whitehorse councils who have called for significant changes to the project.
“We have fundamental concerns about the North East Link,” Cr Watson said.
“We participated in the panel hearings in good faith and we have not been listened to.
“We would like to see it gobble less land and have concerns about our environmentally sensitive Koonung Creek Reserve.”
Cr Watson said the councils had major concerns about the integrity of the decision-making process.
“We are currently reviewing the submission and considering our options moving forward,” she said.
“All options are open at this stage.”
Opposition transport spokesman David Davis said communities would be better off if the panel’s recommendations were listened to.
“Everybody wants a new road but it has to be the right road,” he said.
“The independent panel listened closely to the submissions put to it and gave Daniel Andrews a roadmap.
“It is a pity he didn’t listen or won’t listen.”
kieran.rooney@news.com.au