The state government is in the process of acquiring a 3.5-hectare site in Rockbank for a future primary school.
Woodlea developer Mirvac has agreed to hand over the parcel of land, at Timbertop Parade, Aintree, in lieu of paying a Growth Areas Infrastructure Contribution.
Mirvac will construct roads to the site and provide essential utilities including gas, electricity, sewerage and telecommunications.
The acquisition has been hailed a win for the local community and taxpayers, with the government getting the site for considerably less than the Valuer-General’s valuation, according to the Victorian Planning Authority. The site has been valued at $8.2 million, according to a state government spokesman.
However, the government and education department have remained tight-lipped on when funding to build the school will be announced.
Education department spokeswoman Katie Elliot said it would be subject to future budget announcements.
“Families in Rockbank North are a step closer to having a new primary school, with the government acquiring land through a landmark planning agreement,” Ms Elliot said.
This is the second Growth Areas Infrastructure Contribution agreement of its kind and follows a 12-month negotiation process.
Melton council engagement and advocacy manager Daniel Hogan said council had been working with the Victorian Planning Authority to identify, and secure, future school sites.
“The proposed new school is one of the top education priorities for our growing community and we are delighted to see it is one step closer to being realised,” Mr Hogan said.
A state government spokesman said the government would consider funding the construction of the school in next year’s state budget.
The Victorian School Building Authority organised a community engagement workshop earlier this year at Rockbank calling for resident feedback on school designs to match local needs.
Education Minister James Merlino said at the time the input would help shape the future of education in the area and ensure that new schools best catered for students and their families.
