Wednesday, 1 November 2023

 Tim RICHARDSON (Mordialloc) (10:03): I want to just acknowledge the works that are ramping up in Parkdale. The level crossing removal program is a substantial delivery for the Frankston train line: two level crossings gone for good by the middle of 2024 and a brand new train station. We know 20,000 vehicles pass through Parkdale each and every day. As works have ramped up, there has been a significant impact on congestion, on our community and on our Parkdale traders as well. But on the weekend everyone came out to celebrate Halloween. I do not think I have ever seen so many people lining the streets and the traders strip in Parkdale. Thousands came out to support their local businesses and to support their traders as well. So a big shout-out to everyone that took the opportunity to get around those works to get down and support this thriving village community.

We know that when we do these works and create a more accessible, inclusive and safe environment in Parkdale, people will be able to walk and transition through. There will be more parking, greater green space and access for many years to come. But during these times we have just got to go that little bit further and take that opportunity to support them, and they will bounce back bigger and better than ever before into the future. It is part of our program to remove all level crossings on the Frankston train line, getting people home safer and sooner. And with the delivery of the Melbourne Metro rail tunnel, this will be a turn-up-and-go service by 2025, making our community safer and more accessible for the future.