Moreland City Council is extremely disappointed by the State Government's lack of consultation with the community and Council on the design of the new Moreland and Coburg stations.
The new stations are part of the State Government's level crossing removal project, being managed and delivered by its agency the Level Crossing Removal Project (LXRP).
The station designs were announced on Wednesday 12 June 2019, with no prior notice or consultation with the community or Council.
"To now see station designs, just as the public submission period closes, is unsatisfactory and not in keeping with the spirit of public participation that we've worked hard to negotiate with the LXRP," said Cr Natalie Abboud, Mayor of the City of Moreland.
Council is also concerned that despite multiple requests, the LXRP is yet to brief Councillors on the overall project.
"It is unacceptable that neither the community or Council were afforded the opportunity to have their say about the design of the stations, especially considering the deep consultation on other aspects of the project, with more than 100 local residents recently participating in LXRP drop-in sessions.
"I encourage members of our community to provide feedback and voice their concerns to the State Government and the LXRP," said Cr Abboud.
Council will table its concerns with the Minister for Transport and will continue to advocate to the State Government and the LXRP for meaningful community consultation throughout the design and delivery of the project.
"The removal of level crossings in Moreland are welcome projects after many years of Council-led advocacy. Engaging the community and key stakeholders such as Council on important elements, especially station design, is vital," said Cr Abboud.
The level crossing removal project is funded and delivered by the State Government via the Level Crossings Removal Project (LXRP).
