Public feedback on proposed East-West Link in Melbourne shows the lack of a business case and cost are top concerns
By Ruza Zivkusic-Aftasi | July 5, 2013
As the first round of East-West Link project consultations comes to an end today, the flow of responses to Linking Melbourne Authority’s (LMA) website shows the lack of a business case and cost as top concerns.
An online public forum has been set up asking for responses to the proposed East-West Link corridor.
More than 100 replies have been made in the past month, questioning how the road will relieve congestion on Hoddle Street and whether noise barriers will be put in place at exit ramps near the Tullamarine Freeway.
The proposed project is an 18km cross-city road connection linking the Eastern Freeway to the Western Ring Road.
The Victorian Government this year allocated more than $200 million to the first stage of the project but committed only $10 million to the rail tunnel.
One respondent claims the project will “cripple the state’s fiscal position”, with another one questioning the Government’s level of investment.
“There are greater needs for Melbourne than this road,” one respondent says.
“Regarding transport, this fund would be better spent on public transport.
“So many public transport projects are dependent upon the Melbourne Metro project, so let’s build this project to allow continued investment in public transport to the airport.”
A more detailed design outlining the corridor will be released in the coming months, the LMA says.
It is responsible for delivering the $2.5 billion EastLink project, which was opened five months ago.
The LMA, which was established in 2010, is assisting the Department of Transport in developing a business case and undertaking early planning work for the East-West Link.
