ROAD duplications, upgrades to Melton railway station and new schools are among the projects Melton councillors want funded in next month’s state budget.
Councillors last week outlined their wishes for the May 7 budget, expressing hope the government will throw some much-needed funds Melton’s way.
Last year, residents and councillors were shocked after the government announced a $500 million jail in Ravenhall, ahead of transport and health projects.
Cr Lara Carli said a 24-hour public hospital was at the top of her priority list. She also wants more secondary and special-needs schools to cope with rapid population growth.
Deputy mayor Bob Turner said he wanted funding for the duplication of Melton’s railway to Deer Park and two new railway stations at Caroline Springs and Atherstone.
Upgrades to Melton South Community Centre and beautification works around Melton south were priorities for Cr Sophie Ramsey.
Cr Broden Borg called for the duplication of Melton Highway and increased funding for educational support programs. “The list is endless; the lack of support over the past few years has been frustrating,” he said.
Melton chief executive Kel Tori said the city’s infrastructure needed more funding.
Projects needing funding included a pedestrian bridge overpass at Melton railway station and a public hospital in Melton.
“[Council wants] Djerriwarrh Health Services’ Melton Community Health Centre to be relocated to a more suitable site, electrification and duplication of the Melton rail line, a Melton Highway upgrade, and a train station for Caroline Springs.”
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