Thursday, 31 October 2024

Western Metropolitan Region

Moira DEEMING (Western Metropolitan) (13:01): (1219) My constituency question is for Minister Pearson in the other place. As part of the Victorian government’s Level Crossing Removal Project, Newport’s Champion Road level crossing is scheduled for permanent closure by 2026. Critical concerns expressed by the community include the loss of direct access. Champion Road has been a vital connection between Newport and Williamstown, and its closure will redirect traffic onto other roads, increase travel times and cause potential congestion on Mason Street and Melbourne Road. Impact on local businesses – many businesses rely on Champion Road’s accessibility. The change in traffic flow may reduce foot traffic, harming local businesses’ livelihoods. Lack of community consultation – groups like Keep Champion Road Open feel there has been insufficient consultation and are calling for greater engagement and additional studies before a final decision is made. Will the minister investigate designs for dual-purpose rail or road bridge designs that incorporate the pipelines and a trial closure of Champion Road to assess the full impact before making this permanent decision, so as to collect data on traffic, businesses and daily life and allow for community feedback?