Tara Murray
Brimbank council is encouraging residents to have their say about the future Sunshine Transport Precinct and the development of Sunshine station.
The state government last week launched community engagement for both projects, along with the Albion Flyover, as part of the broader Melbourne Airport Rail Link project.
The council has previously expressed concerns about the lack of community consultation to date, launching its own petition seeking assurances that Brimbank won’t be forgotten about.
As reported by Star Weekly, Sunshine station will double in size and become a “key transport interchange” under plans for Melbourne’s Airport Rail Link.
There will be works around the station precinct, while some upgrades surrounding Albion station will also be included in the project.
Mayor Ranka Rasic said Brimbank residents needed to have their say on the project.
“We’re pleased that the state government has recognised Sunshine’s strategic importance and is providing an important opportunity for the community to have a say in how this area – our home – is developed,” Cr Rasic said.
“I strongly urge our local residents, businesses and stakeholders to make the most of this opportunity to share your aspirations for this project, along with your feedback to the state government.
“Many in our community are passionate about the potential for Melbourne Airport Rail, and particularly the proposed Sunshine Super Hub, to regenerate the area and the broader western region.
“Similarly, I know many share council’s concerns that the proposed Albion flyover will overshadow development opportunities, fail to integrate the station into the surrounding precinct or acknowledge the heritage value of Albion’s nearby Darling Flour Mill.
“With that in mind, we call for true engagement and outcomes that reflect the concerns and aspirations of our community.”
Cr Rasic reinforced the council’s view that these projects should help transform the area into a 21st century city, as outlined in the council’s Sunshine Priority Precinct Vision 2050.”
“The vision outlines a plan to help unlock up to $8 billion of investment and development potential and create between 20,000 and 50,000 new jobs across the precinct over the next 30 years,” she said.
The state government is also calling for nominations for a community reference group.
To provide feedback on the Sunshine plans, visit: engage.vic.gov.au/sunshine
To share feedback on the wider project, visit: engage.vic.gov.au/melbourne-airport-rail.
