Casey councillor Amanda Stapledon and Lynbrook resident Gamini Fonseka are calling for works to start on the Merinda Park railway station car park expansion. 50551
By Bridget Cook
CONSTRUCTION on the promised Merinda Park railway station car park expansion is yet to start, despite it being due to open later this year.
The extension of the car park, which will include more than 350 new parking spaces complete with CCTV and lighting, was announced and funded last year by the former Labor Government.
When making the announcement, the former Public Transport Minister Martin Pakula said the works would start early this year and be completed by the end of the year.
Commuters have been left frustrated and forced to park in mud and cop council fines.
Lynbrook resident Gamini Fonseka, who uses the station almost every day, said something needed to be done soon.
“Parking is still a problem because there’s not enough parking spaces compared to the number of commuters.
“Some positive solution is needed for this problem.
“The State Government must take immediate action for this. It’s not safe; the vehicles and commuters are in danger.”
City of Casey councillor Amanda Stapledon, who has been a strong advocate for the expansion, said the construction of the car park was desperately needed for the community and something that was being followed up with the Department of Transport on a regular basis.
“The council is aware that design of the car park upgrade is under way, and is seeking that the Department of Transport finalise this design so that the upgrade can occur immediately.
“I will continue to seek updates from the State Government and to emphasise the urgency of this project.”
Narre Warren South MP Judith Graley said she continued to call for construction to commence.
“Construction of this extension should have started a long time ago,” she said.
“While the Baillieu Government dithers, local commuters are struggling to park their cars at the station and getting bogged in the mud.
“I continue to receive emails and phone calls from local residents who are fed up with the state of the car park.
“The funding for this project was in the Brumby Labor Government’s final budget last year, so Mr Baillieu and his Minister Terry Mulder have no excuses.”
A Department of Transport spokesman said the department was continuing negotiations with a private landholder regarding access options for the extra car parking facilities planned.
“The Department is hopeful that a positive outcome will be reached soon,” he said.
