FRANKSTON’S time in the political limelight may be over after last month’s state election delivered Labor a 6-seat majority to oust the Coalition government after just one term in power but council is determined to ensure political pre-election promises are not forgotten.
Council has written to newly elected Premier Daniel Andrews asking for details about a taskforce to oversee the redevelopment of Frankston train station and its surrounds.
Mr Andrews promised to establish a taskforce within 100 days of the 29 November election to plan a $50 million transformation of the station precinct into “a state-of-the-art transport hub” including a multi-level car park for commuters and a business hub in partnership with Chisholm TAFE (‘Fast track for station upgrade’, The Times 17/11/14).
Councillors unanimously backed a suggestion by Cr Darrel Taylor at this month’s council meeting to write to the new Labor state government to express “council’s desire to be well represented on the taskforce”.
Cr Taylor, who sought preselection as the state election Liberal candidate for Frankston but missed out to Sean Armistead, also urged council to arrange meetings with ministers “to discuss the new government’s election promises that were pledged for the city of Frankston”.
Councillors agreed council should write to the relevant ministers.
In addition to the $50 million to redevelop the Frankston transit interchange Labor also promised:
- $175 million Thompsons Rd duplication
- $25 million to build a new higher education and student hub at Frankston Chisholm TAFE
- A full diamond interchange for Ballarto Rd as part of the Western Port Highway upgrade
- The removal of the Overton Rd level crossing
Mayor Cr Sandra Mayer credited council’s Speak Up For Frankston pre-election lobbying campaign as a major factor in both political parties making Frankston funding commitments.
“More than a thousand residents took part in the online survey and many of spoke to local candidates,” Cr Mayer said.
“Although the election is over, Council will continue to speak up for Frankston to ensure the best outcomes for our community.”
Cr Mayer said council had arranged a meeting with new Labor MP for Frankston Paul Edbrooke “before Christmas” and would meet incoming Carrum Labor MP Sonya Kilkenny “early in the New Year”.
“I have recently met with the head of Plan Melbourne with whom we will be having regular meetings,” Cr Mayer said.
State Planning Minister Jacinta Allan will also meet council early next year.
