By Matthew Sims
Newport and Williamstown residents have expressed their dissatisfaction with Labor’s proposed plan to completely close the Champion Road level crossing to traffic.
As part of an announcement on October 26, Labor pledged to remove the remaining level crossings along the Werribee line, including Champion Road.
Under the initial plans, Labor put forward building a grade-separated pedestrian crossing at Champion Road that will link in to local paths and diverting traffic to a proposed new rail bridge at the Maddox Road level crossing.
Hobsons Bay councillor Peter Hemphill said the plan would create disadvantages for Newport and Williamstown residents.
“There has been a swift and strong community response to the plan to close Champion Road, which would be a train wreck for residents and businesses in Newport and Williamstown,” he said.
“We need to maintain north-south connections between Newport and Williamstown.”
Newport Traders Association president Gill Gannon said the proposed closure of the crossing would be “devastating” for the community.
“It was an announcement that took us off guard,” she said.
Ms Gannon said the closure would divert traffic onto already congested roads such as Kororoit Creek Road.
“The movement of the community is really going to change,” she said.
Ms Gannon said the Keep Champion Road Open Facebook page has already attracted more than 850 followers and a petition has also begun to show the community’s opposition to the plans.
Liberal candidate for Williamstown Daria Kellander said the closure would add to commute times.
“The west needs better infrastructure and connectivity, not more traffic, congestion and noise,” she said.
Further investigations would be required on road improvement options before designs are completed, with community engagement scheduled to begin next year.
Williamstown MP Melissa Horne said while the closure of the level crossing was the preferred option, Labor would consult with the community.
“We’ll work closely with the community to hear their views and take the time to get this project right,” she said.
“This project isn’t due for completion until 2030 so we have the time to continue this work.”
Details: keepchampionroadopen.com
