Election advocacy pays off

New traffic lights will improve pedestrian and motorist safety at the dangerous intersection of Burwood Highway and McMahons Road in Ferntree Gully.

Knox Mayor Cr Susan Laukens welcomed the announcement this week from the Victorian Government.

“This intersection has been the site of four crashes in the last five years.

“We’ve been advocating to the Victorian Government to address safety concerns at this location, and I’m very pleased that the Government has recognised the need to upgrade the intersection,” said Cr Laukens.

“Traffic lights will improve access to nearby residential and industrial estates and improve pedestrian access across Burwood Hwy.

“This will be even more important if the proposed redevelopment of the old quarry site in Norvel Road, which includes 138 new homes, goes ahead.

“All levels of government play a role in ensuring our community thrives. In the lead up to federal and state elections this year I’ve been meeting with our local state and federal Members of Parliament and candidates to ensure our community has an elevated voice.

“I was also very pleased with recent announcements that, if re-elected at the federal election, a Liberal Coalition Government will fund lighting upgrades at Guy Turner Reserve, Kings Park and Chandler Park.

“This will provide safer facilities for Bayswater Strikers Soccer Club, Upper Ferntree Gully Baseball Club and The Basin Football and Netball Club and help all three clubs cater for growing participation.

“I look forward to further announcements to support the upgrade of priority sporting infrastructure, including building a new hockey facility for Knox and a new pavilion at Lewis Park.

“Our community should know that we are speaking up, lobbying and advocating strongly for increased investment in Knox,” she said.

Council is also seeking funding to provide extra kindergarten places, establish a new mental health service in Wantirna, build two social housing developments for women at risk of homelessness and improved recreation facilities at Lewis Park.

Investment is sought from all levels of government for the Boronia Station and shopping precinct renewal.

Council is also advocating for better public transport options in Melbourne’s east, including a trackless tram route between Caulfield Station and Rowville, and extension of the Route 75 tram from Vermont South to Upper Ferntree Gully Station and Bayswater Business Precinct.

/Public Release. View in full here.