New suburb sparks rivalry

Artist's impression of Thornhill

Caroline Springs residents fear their needs will be forgotten by the state government now a new suburb has moved into town.

Thornhill Park, a master planned community of 2376 houses between Melton and Caroline Springs, was given the green light as Melbourne’s newest suburb last Wednesday.

Planning minister Richard Wynne signed off on its precinct structure plan, which is being managed by the Metropolitan Planning Authority.

Residents took their concerns online.

“Caroline Springs’ residents were promised a train station, clean lakes, Internet connection, safe streets … have state government and Melton council delivered, or are they just moving on?” one post on the Caroline Springs Residents Facebook page asked.

Welsh Developments owner and former Essendon footballer Andrew Welsh, said Thornhill Park will offer all the lifestyle choices and amenities needed to attract new residents.

Thornhill Park estate will have two primary schools, a retail centre, a sports reserve and a new train station – part of plans to upgrade the Melton railway line.

Mr Welsh said the development will cater for about 7000 new residents.

“My father and I have lived in the west for many years, and know how important it is to bring great community developments to Melbourne’s west.”