PUBLIC Transport Victoria has refused to reveal the cost of duplicating the Altona train loop, saying it will likely “result in unnecessary debate and cause confusion”.
In May, a Transport Department representative told an Altona public meeting that duplication of the line — which would especially improve services for Altona, Seaholme and Westona commuters on the Werribee line — could cost $10 million.
Many considered this a nominal amount and hopes were raised that the line’s duplication was a distinct possibility.
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State Williamstown MP Wade Noonan subsequently lodged a freedom of information request for options and costs of duplicating the line.
The PTV response was that “the release of these documents is likely to result in unnecessary debate and cause confusion as they are capable of being misinterpreted, which would be contrary to the public interest.”
PTV gave the same rationale for refusing to release documents containing “recommendations which are not reflective of the current government’s transport planning priorities and, consequently, release of these documents would be misleading, capable of being misinterpreted and likely to result in confusion or unnecessary debate.”
Mr Noonan said PTV’s response made a mockery of the state government’s promise to be open and transparent. “They’ve even said the documents that I’ve requested may result in confusion or unnecessary debate. This smacks of a cover-up.”
New Hobsons Bay councillor and Altona Loop Group member Sandra Wilson called for greater transparency.
