Liam McNally
The coming year will be one of change for the City of Melton. Rapid population growth in Melbourne’s outer west is putting pressure on existing infrastructure, which council is hoping to ease with a number of infrastructure project in the pipeline for 2023.
Melton is one of Australia’s fastest growing suburbs, and its population is expected to more than double by 2051 from 180,000 to over 400,000.
Melton mayor Lara Carli said Melton continues to grow at an “unprecedented” pace, and a big focus this year is delivering better open spaces and more accessible sports and recreation infrastructure “so everyone can get active and outdoors”.
“Council is working hard to make sure our infrastructure not only keeps up with population growth, but improves services and amenities for everyone,” she said.
“Investing in infrastructure now means we’re building a more resilient and healthy community. We’re rolling out our $89 million capital works program for the 2022-23 financial year, which includes constructing and upgrading community centres, sporting facilities, parks, roads and more.”
Major projects will include upgrades to Bulmans Road from High Street to Centenary Avenue, new childrens and community centres at Mount Atkinson, Rockbank, Aintree and Cobblebank, upgrades to the MacPherson Park Rugby and Gridiron pavilion, revitalised play spaces at Banchory Green Reserve and Centenary Park, a new pavilion at Diggers Rest, a new Mt Atkinson Active Open Space Precinct, and Stage 2 of the Bridge Road Recreation Reserve redevelopment.
“Building new infrastructure while maintaining and upgrading existing infrastructure continues to be a major challenge, but our strong relationship with the state and federal governments will help ensure we have strong investment over the coming years,” said Cr Carli.
“We’re proud to be delivering new and upgraded buildings, roads, recreation facilities and more to help local families enjoy the City of Melton even more.”
