Sarah Oliver
A possible upgrade to the Melton Weir is gaining traction, with council in consultation with the community and a committee almost ready to be finalised.
Melton councillor Ashleigh Vandenberg has been lobbying for the weir to be upgraded since a council meeting in November 2021 which prompted the council to look into possible improvements.
Cr Vandenberg said she has had “quite a large amount of contact from residents” and that the biggest issue raised is accessibility.
“Victorian Fisheries stock a large amount of fish in the Melton Weir and residents are seeking safe access to the water with pontoons, piers and a boat access point,” she said.
“Walking tracks with native flora is also highly requested with residents wanting open space, parks and a well maintained location that is both environmentally focused and sustainable.
“The common theme raised by the residents of Melton is ensuring that the Melton Weir is protected and maintained as a community space and the people of Melton are highly concerned that it will become overdeveloped with apartments right up to the river bank which will also lead to further pollution of the area and water.
“I share these concerns and also want the same as our residents which is why I have taken it on board to push for a space we can all access and enjoy for generations to come.”
Melton residents have taken to Facebook to express their feedback and concerns.
“The whole area has so much potential,” one resident wrote.
“With the reservoir no longer a source of drinking water for Melton, there’s no reason why the weir can’t be reopened and a section set aside for safe swimming,” another said.
“I took my family to Melton reservoir for the first time last weekend. We did not allow the kids out of the car due to the rubbish, glass and fishing hooks spread around the area. If you want more of the public to attend, then it needs to be safe to do so from the outset,” another resident wrote.
“The investment must be made up front, I acknowledge this is at risk, not as an afterthought to an overdue need… Then, the people will come.”
