By NOEL MURPHY
IT’S been a long time in coming but Fyansford’s protracted cement works revamp as a new suburb is becoming a reality.
Siteworks have blocked Hyland Street, the steep road between the Hamilton Highway and McCurdy road, as earthmoving plant and construction crews refashion the grade of the adjoining land.
The 115-hectare Gen Fyansford project is the latest incarnation of what back in 2001 was meant to be a $300 million project by Perth developer Rob Moltoni before the division controlling the site went into receivership.
The Fyansford Green project would have seen 2000 dwellings and an 11-hectare town centre, with the Moorabool River cutting through the site abutting Herne Hill.
Rezoned in 2008, the Gen Fyansford project’s first stage development is well under way with around 120 blocks being prepared for housing beside Hyland Street.
Further, much larger, housing sectors will be opened to the west – all up 1000 allotments — with parkland, a community centre, youth recreation park and adventure playground included in plans.
Fyansford boasts a curious history which marketers have melded with modern amenities and lifestyle attributes in a slick online campaign.
Fyansford was founded by pioneer Foster ‘Flogger’ Fyans, a commandant from the notorious Norfolk Island penal camp, in 1837. Its historic bridge was built by John Monash, its cement works a fixture for a century and its Moorabool River diverted 25 years ago to allow for a mining expansion that never lasted.
Right now, Hyland Street is closed as new water and sewerage pipelines are installed as part of $2 million works includes a 700 metre section of water pipeline and two kilometres of sewerage pipeline.
The new pipelines will be located along Hyland and a number of streets in Herne Hill. Hyland Street will be closed until 4 August.
