Wednesday, 14 August 2024

Southern Metropolitan Region

Georgie CROZIER (Southern Metropolitan) (12:57): (1022) My constituency question is to the Minister for Transport Infrastructure and Minister for the Suburban Rail Loop. Last week I met with members of the Highett Progress Association Douglas, Elizabeth, Janina, Colin and Zandra. Douglas had written to me. In his email he said:

Highett residents are alarmed and in some cases already suffering mental anguish from the overwhelming change to their lives and wellbeing threatened by the Suburban Rail Loop Authority … plans for Cheltenham Precinct.

When I spoke with these residents they did point out just how anxious they were about the government’s plans for 18-storey residential towers, with high density in the area, which will increase traffic congestion, reduce open space and place huge pressure on local facilities and essential services, including schools and the like – recreation, roads, public transport and health care. The issue is these residents would like to meet the minister. So I ask: will the minister meet with these concerned residents in Highett to listen to them and address these important matters that will significantly change their community?