Croydon electorate level crossing removals
Mr HODGETT (Croydon) (19:08): (6490) My adjournment is for the Minister for Transport Infrastructure regarding the Croydon level crossing removal project, and the action I seek is for the minister to organise a briefing from the level crossing removal authority for me and my staff at the earliest convenience. The level crossing removal authority appear to be very selective with the information they are disseminating to the Croydon community over the works that are being undertaken, and I do not have confidence that the community or I are receiving all the relevant information regarding this project. My office was recently bypassed when pertinent material was being handed out to the Main Street traders in Croydon. One of my staff members needed to chase down and approach the level crossing removal staff after witnessing them visiting shops and businesses on Main Street, Croydon, and not entering my office. My staff member requested a copy of the information that was being circulated to the other traders in Croydon and noted that it was about upcoming online community information sessions as well as a Main Street trader information meeting. The removal of this crossing is a big deal in the Croydon community, and it is vital that as the member of Parliament I be kept informed of every step in the process. It is very apparent that as I am an opposition member the government do not consider me important enough to be kept informed of what is happening in my electorate—such disappointing and unprofessional behaviour. As the minister would know, a member of Parliament’s office is often the first point of contact for constituents who are concerned about the impact on their properties and businesses of such a massive project. A bipartisan approach should be adopted in these matters, and I therefore reiterate my request for a briefing with the level crossing removal authority regarding this major Croydon development.