By Hamish Heard
HOBSONS Bay mayor Bill Baarini has spoken out against a proposal that could see homes close to the Westgate Freeway bulldozed in a bid to solve Melbourne’s traffic woes.
The council is calling on residents to tell the State Government what they think about recommendations made in Sir Rod Eddington’s East-West Link Needs Assessment report.
Among the recommendations is a plan to widen the Westgate Freeway between Williamstown Rd and the Western Ring Rd.
The plan would require the compulsory acquisition of homes in Spotswood, South Kingsville, Altona North and Brooklyn.
“If the job was done right over the last 30 to 40 years and proper infrastructure and public transport was put in place, then that option of acquiring peoples’ homes would not even be on the cards,” Cr Baarini said.
He said widening the freeway could add to congestion on the bridge.
“What’s the point of increasing the size of the Westgate Freeway if all it does is put more pressure on the Westgate Bridge, which is already at capacity?”
The council was preparing a submission on the report.
Cr Baarini urged homeowners in areas that could potentially affected not to panic.
“My advice to those residents is not to be alarmed because it’s an option that will need to be seriously contested,” Cr Baarini said.
“People need to understand that the council is also very much concerned about that proposal and we’re encouraging people to join with the council and voice their concerns by making a submission.”
Other recommendations outlined in the report include:
· A 17-kilometre rail tunnel linking the west to the east from Footscray to Caulfield
· An 18-kilometre cross-city freeway standard transport link including tunnels to relieve pressure on the West –Gate Bridge and to provide an alternative crossing over the Maribyrnong River
· Potentially widening the West Gate Freeway between Williamstown Road and the Western Ring Road
· A truck action plan for the inner western region
· Initiatives to improve cycling infrastructure for commuters
· Shifting more freight to rail.
To view the report or make a submission, visit the Department of Infrastructure website at www.doi.vic.gov.au before 15 July.
