By Ewen McRae
Melton council has increased its push for upgrades to Melton station, with the state government yet to commit to funding much-needed improvements.
A major upgrade of stations on the Ballarat line was completed last year, included large scale upgrades to Rockbank, Bacchus Marsh and Ballan stations, while a new station opened at Cobblebank.
However Melton station, which sits in the middle of those four stations, has remained untouched.
Councillor Bob Turner moved a motion at the last council meeting to write to Public Transport Minister Melissa Horne to push for the upgrades.
Council engineering services manager Sam Romaszko said getting the station upgraded was a priority project for council.
“Council is writing to the minister to make it clear that this upgrade is greatly needed,” Mr Romaszko said.
“Local commuters regularly contact council regarding Melton station, with most enquiries relating to parking, safety, lighting and amenity.
“We understand the community concerns around the Melton station and its upgrade is among the projects council is asking the state government to prioritise for funding.
“Making Melton station a more accessible, safe, and convenient station is a high priority for council and will make a significant difference to the many residents who regularly commute to work and study.”
A recent survey from RACV on commuter satisfaction at train stations saw Melton record a score of 5.32 out of 10, much lower than Ballan (6.83), Bacchus Marsh (6.76), and Caroline Springs (6.65).
A government spokesperson said: “We’re always looking at ways to improve our public transport network for passengers, including at Melton.
“We’ve added new services, increased car parking and we’re getting on with the planning to add even more parks and new lighting and CCTV to make the Melton station car park even safer.”
Melton MP Steve McGhie told Star Weekly in December he was hopeful that upgrades to the station would come following works to electrify the train line between Deer Park and Melton.
