Front: SEATS chairwoman Sue Whelan and chief executive Chris Vardon. Back from left: Cardinia Shire assets and developments manager Paul Healy, SEATS vicechairman and Casey councillor Rob Wilson and VicRoads representative Harvey Dinelli.By Sarah Schwager
A BETTER transport system is needed in Cardinia and surrounds, according to local councils.
The South East Australian Transport Strategy, which looks at the measures needed to improve transport in the southeast region of Australia, met for the first time in Cardinia last Friday.
Cardinia Shire assets and developments manager Paul Healy said the impact the third Dandenong rail line would have on Pakenham and surrounding areas was a big topic.
“We also looked at a strategic approach to get funding for roadworks in the CardiniaCasey area,” Mr Healy said.
He said the common theme among the local councils was that an improved transport network was needed.
Cardinia mayor Bill Ronald said the reopening of the South Gippsland rail network was discussed.
Cr Ronald also brought up the issue of the proposed McGregor Road overpass, which he said was outlined in a development plan for Pakenham in 1974 but never went ahead.
He said that once the new freeway was completed and an offramp was connected with McGregor Road, the rail crossing would cause traffic congestion and major delays.
He said the SEATS meeting had been an important avenue to discuss problems with Cardinia’s transport.
