By JOHN VAN KLAVEREN
The NAPTHINE Government’s east-west tunnel plan is a “dud” for Geelong, according to Lara MP John Eren.
Mr Eren went on the attack as the opposition embarked on an advertising campaign labelling the $8 billion project a waste.
“Mr Napthine’s current $8 billion dud tunnel is not a long-term solution for Victoria and does nothing for Geelong motorists,” Mr Eren said.
“Local public transport is overcrowded and local roads can’t be improved because Denis Napthine is wasting our money.
“Instead of rebuilding our schools, expanding our rail network or removing dangerous level crossings Mr Napthine, South Barwon MP Andrdew Katos and the Liberals are wasting $8 billion on a tunnel no one wants or voted for.
“Instead of fixing the crisis in our emergency departments, saving Geelong jobs, investing in Gordon TAFE or fixing congestion on the West Gate Freeway, Denis Napthine and the Liberals are wasting $8 billion on a tunnel.”
Mr Eren said Geelong’s rail network and level crossing upgrades would be incomplete for decades because of the expenditure.
“No one voted for this tunnel and no one voted for this Premier. If Denis Napthine really thinks this is the right project for Geelong and Victoria then he should take it to an election,” he said.
South Barwon MP Andrew Katos said Mr Eren’s allegation no money remained for other road projects was baseless.
“We’re getting on with the Princes Hwy duplication, the former 4C stage of the ring road, Baanip Blvd, we widened Pioneer Rd and there are plenty of other road projects going on.
“We’re working to get the Great Ocean Rd upgraded because without maintenance we could get slippages and put valuable tourism dollars at risk.
“We’re also building the regional rail link, which will take a percentage of people off the roads.”
Mr Katos said the Government needed to make a start on the East West Link project.
“We’re conscious of having to do the second stage but you have to start somewhere.”
