Hume City Council has welcomed a $2.6 million investment from the Australian Government for the Pioneering Urban Innovation: Planning a New City in Melbourne's North project.
The project will bring Hume City Council together with Mitchell and Whittlesea councils, Stockland, and Wurundjeri (Registered Aboriginal Party) in a regional partnership for the creation of an activity centre on Cloverton Boulevard.
The investment, from the latest round of the federal urban Precincts and Partnerships Program, will allow for the planning of the new hub - creating employment, transport and housing in Hume's northern growth corridor.
The precinct proposal is being considered as one of Australia's most ambitious urban planning projects, rethinking the approach to create more inclusive, sustainable cities.
Hume City Mayor Cr Jarrod Bell and Yubup Ward Councillor Ally Watson welcomed Infrastructure, Transport, Regional Development and Local Government Minister Catherine King and Member for McEwen Rob Mitchell to Hume for the exciting announcement, which will see better access to vital services for residents in outer northern suburbs.
Council has long been an advocate for an all-levels of government approach to ensure residents in regional growth areas stay connected and thrive. We thank the Australian Government for their investment in our community's future.
Quotes attributable to Hume City Mayor, Councillor Jarrod Bell:
"This groundbreaking announcement by the federal government validates what we've known for a long time – that what we've been doing is not working and we must take a different approach to planning regional precincts."
"We have been advocating for a mixed-use hub in this rapidly growing area of Hume, and it's critical we have the support of all levels of government to ensure our residents have access to services no matter where they live."
"We're proud to be working alongside key partners and our community to shape an investment-ready regional precinct that will drive employment, enhance transport connectivity, deliver diverse housing options, while celebrating local cultural and community life."
Quotes attributable to Mitchell Shire Mayor, John Dougall:
"Mitchell Shire is proud to be a key partner in planning this new regional city. With Beveridge and Wallan set to experience significant growth, this project will be critical to ensuring our residents have access to jobs, services and community facilities close to home.
"The Federal Government's support for this partnership helps us take a major step towards delivering a sustainable and connected future for Melbourne's north. This is about planning smart, inclusive growth – not just for one municipality, but for an entire region."
