Connect Melbourne’s North: It’s time to transform our transport

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The seven Councils in Melbourne’s north are seeking urgent action to improve the region’s transport system in an effort to address severe traffic congestion, long trips to the nearest hospital, challenges in accessing jobs and education, and increasing social isolation.

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Our campaign calls for critical improvements to transport across the region, including:

• duplicating and extending the Upfield rail line 

• enhancing bus and train services to reduce travel times and improve connectivity

• investing in active transport infrastructure

• supporting the transition to electric vehicles.

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To kick off the campaign we are calling for the duplication and extension of the Upfield rail line to support our growing population. It will improve train frequency, removing ongoing constraints and increasing capacity, frequency and reliability for passengers.

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Melbourne’s north is one of Australia’s fastest growing regions, with a population of 1.5 million forecast by 2036 – a growth rate of 2.8 per cent compared to 1.6 per cent for Greater Melbourne. But this population growth has not been matched with the necessary investment in transport.

 

Over the years this has caused massive road congestion and delays in connecting between transport options.

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Our transport system is not supporting the current population and there is no plan in place to serve future populations.

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Today, our community must either rely on a

public transport service that does not meet their

requirements or drive their own vehicle, which

leads to increased congestion. In the north,

a journey that takes 35 minutes by car can take

two hours or more by public transport.

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And weekend services in many areas are almost

non-existent.

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The NCA has commissioned comprehensive research reports on the region’s transport needs and is now working with other regional stakeholders to advocate for the reports’ recommendations. But strong engagement and financial and policy support from state and federal governments are needed to achieve those transport goals.

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Better transport options will stimulate economic growth across Melbourne’s north and improve quality of life for residents. Effective transport solutions will bridge the gap between inner urban and outer areas so that everyone has equal access to job, health and education centres.

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Seamless connectivity is needed between different transport modes to ensure that commuting becomes smoother and hassle-free. Sustainable transport options are also key to future planning.

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“With our region’s growth, planning and investment in transport options is critical. Our seven Councils are responding to this issue by working together to campaign for support from state and federal governments,” said Cr Tom Melican, Chair of the NCA and Mayor of Banyule.

Cr Melican said this is a great example of Councils working together to campaign for better transport in their region.

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“We’ve conducted comprehensive research and we know what’s required. With our population tipped to continue growing rapidly, we need to support our economy and improve our community’s access to essential services. Investing in critical transport infrastructure will be key to doing just that. As a region we need support from our colleagues in the state and federal governments and we are ready to work with them.”

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Visit www.connectmelbournesnorth.com to find out more.