The state government is under growing pressure to reveal greater detail about its plans for the West Gate Distributor.
Maribyrnong council is calling for more information about the $680 million project, while opposition MPs are demanding greater transparency.
Greens MP Colleen Hartland told Parliament her party welcomed any commitment to reducing the impact of freight trucks travelling through Melbourne’s inner west, but she was concerned about the lack of detail and consultation.
“Important questions remain about the design, how local impacts might be mitigated and whether the project will deliver the best outcome for the community as a whole,” she said.
Ms Hartland is calling on Roads Minister Luke Donnellan to guarantee meaningful consultation with the community and ensure there is pedestrian, bike lane and bike trail connectivity alongside the new road. This would include completion of the Federation Trail.
The opposition has continued to criticise government claims the project is “shovel-ready” and to agitate for the release of the business case.
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“Compulsory acquisitions are going to be very important when you are building the biggest, shovel-ready road in the state,” he said.
“If it is the biggest, you are going to have compulsory acquisitions; they have got to be done. But, of course, the government has not talked to anyone.”
Maribyrnong mayor Nam Quach said the council was still waiting for firmer details and a comprehensive briefing on the likely impact of the project.
“Apparently, there is a lot of work to be done, but we are seeking a transparent and consultative process.”
A spokeswoman for Mr Donnellan said the government was committed to a “rigorous planning and consultation process” before a business case was finalised by the end of the year.
“This planning and consultation process will aim to balance the needs of the local community, road users and the environment,” she said.
The government intends to consult community and business stakeholders including local residents, the Port of Melbourne and Maribyrnong, Hobsons Bay and Melbourne councils as well as the Victorian Transport Association and the Maribyrnong Truck Action Group.
