East plane plan

By Danny Buttler
Ongoing problems with parking, travel times and congestion at Tullamarine have led to renewed calls for an airport to be built closer to Melbourne’s major population base.
The Victorian Employers’ Chamber of Commerce and Industry (VECCI) has weighed into the debate, suggesting that the State Government should consider identifying a site for a third airport to Melbourne’s south east to serve the rapidly expanding region
The call has been backed by local residents who believe the development of Avalon as an alternative to Tullamarine is a folly which leaves eastern suburbs residents and industry out in the cold.
Possible airport sites being discussed include Tooradin, Tyabb and an old World War II airfield at Monomeith.
VECCI chief executive Mark Stone said the State Government should secure land for an airport sooner rather than later.
Mr Stone said with Melbourne’s population set to soar to 7,000,000 by 2050, there would be an inevitable need for an airport in the east.
“It seems to make a lot of sense,” he said.
“If we reserve a parcel of land now, we will have that buffer in place for years to come.
“We are thinking somewhere south of Pakenham and east of Cranbourne.”
Narre Warren South resident Mario Prochelle has contacted local politicians about the possibility of building an airport in the region, but received little positive feedback.
But a defiant Mr Prochelle said he would keep on fighting to create a shift in attitude towards an eastern airport.
Eastern Region MP Edward O’Donohue said the State Government had no intention to service the eastern side of Melbourne with a major airport and would instead focus on the city’s west.
“The Coalition Government is always willing to look at new infrastructure project proposals, but at present is focused on its commitments to upgrade Avalon airport,” he said.