By JOHN VAN KLAVEREN
GEELONG voters need a debate on Liberal and Labor transport policies before election day, according to Committee for Geelong chief Rebecca Casson.
East West Link, a Westgate Distributor proposal and improved rail transport to Melbourne held “massive implications” for Geelong voters, she said.
“People are confused or don’t know the full scope or aspects of these projects. Maybe Geelong residents need more clarity because the details are not as well defined as they could be.
“It’s up to the political parties to make sure their messages cut through.
“Just as we recently had a debate on the Bay West port proposal, there ought to be a public debate on East West Link between the ALP and the coalition, particularly from Geelong perspective.”
Ms Casson said West Gate bridge congestion was a vital issue for Geelong drivers, so improved rail connections to Melbourne should be a priority.
“Labor’s alternative traffic plan for the West Gate hasn’t resonated with the Geelong community
“Coalition plans for transport are aimed at enhancing Melbourne, rather than Geelong.
“Geelong needs to lead the dialogue.”
Federal MP Sarah Henderson this week led a state Liberal attack on Labor over leader Daniel Andrews’ pledge to tear up the East West Link contract if he won power.
Ms Henderson called on local unions to support the project.
“Geelong Trades Hall and construction unions must put Geelong jobs before politics and publicly support this massive job creation project,” Ms Henderson said.
Geelong Chamber of Commerce executive officer Bernadette Uzelac said the possibility of a Labor poll win raised concerns about the future of East West Link.
“It is a concern because it’s a key issue for everyone but particularly for those conducting business in Melbourne
“The western part of the link in particular would open up Melbourne to Geelong to a greater extent and see increased business and activity.
“This short-sighted approach is the problem with government cycling from one election to another. We really need the government of the day to make decisions for the long-term future.”
But Geelong Trades Hall secretary Tim Gooden said given a choice between a toll road and public transport, “we’ll support public transport every time”.
Mr Gooden said a significantly improved rail connection including electrification would provide more jobs than the road proposals.
“They’re building more roads for people to drive their cars for work while petrol is going up. It already costs $150 to $200 a week to drive to Melbourne and nearly every car has a single occupant.
“I know Sarah Henderson is trying to drive a wedge but it’s a pointless exercise as far as I’m concerned.”
Mr Gooden said any projected time saving would disappear by the time the project was completed.
