By JOHN VAN KLAVEREN
A new report proves the dumped East West Link proposal is essential to Geelong’s future, according to federal MP Sarah Henderson.
Infrastructure Australia’s (IA) 15-year plan prioritised the East West Link as a second major arterial road from Geelong via the Western Ring Road into Melbourne, avoiding the clogged West Gate Bridge.
Ms Henderson seized on the report saying state Labor’s preferred Western Distributor project was “very Melbourne-centric and a poor cousin to the East West Link” that did “nothing for the long-term needs” of Geelong.
“The business plan for this project has still not been properly costed. Labor is negotiating this in secret with Transurban, raising fears that this will leave Victorians paying another $20 billion to $30 billion in tolls over the life of the contract and getting very little in return.
“With no deal on the table, the Commonwealth is not able to assess the merits of the Western Distributor project.
“Without action, the cost of road congestion in the Melbourne-Geelong area is projected to increase from $3 billion in 2011 to $9 billion in 2031.”
Ms Henderson said the federal Coalition government remained committed to the East West Link, offering $3 billion for the first Victorian government willing to build the link.
“Labor’s decision to pay $1.1 billion in compensation not to build East West Link is one of the most reckless political decisions in Victoria’s history.”
Ms Henderson also accused the State Government of inaction on duplicating of Geelong rail lines.
“The duplication of Geelong’s southern rail corridor will deliver greater capacity for more train services between Colac, Geelong and Melbourne,” she said.
“I can confirm that the Victorian Government did not even submit a business case on this project to IA for consideration.
“This is another example of state Labor turning its back on our region.”
State Labor Lara MP John Eren hit back saying Ms Henderson had shown “complete disregard” for the Geelong community.
“Does Ms Henderson really believe an inner-Melbourne tunnel is better than an alternative crossing to the West Gate Bridge for Geelong commuters?
“Ms Henderson should be backing in the Western Distributor project which will finally provide Geelong commuters a vital second river crossing, rather than bagging it.
“It’s completely scandalous that Victoria gets just 9 per cent of federal infrastructure funds while New South Wales gets 36 per cent of total funds.”
