Overview
The Victorian Government's designs for an elevated rail on the Cranbourne/Pakenham train line have brought plenty of controversy; however, once the $1.6 billion Skyrail project is completed, it looks like they'll also bring a hefty increase of open spaces to Melbourne's south east.
Minister for Public Transport Jacinta Allan yesterday revealed plans to use the area freed up by the line's elevation to create "11 MCGs worth of new open space." Included in the proposal is a 17-kilometre walking and cycling track running from Caulfield to Eastlink, as well as multi-purpose sports courts, rock climbing walls, skating facilities, parks and play areas. Clayton and Noble Park will also each score a fenced dog park, while an extra 4000 trees are set to be planted in the area as well.
The proposed plans come as the government prepares to remove nine level crossings between Caulfield and Dandenong. "By removing the most dangerous and congested level crossings we are making our communities safer," the minister said. "And, by providing more open space we're making them a better place to live."
The government says the plans are the result of extensive consultation from a Community Open Space Expert Panel, which was chaired by Director and Chief Executive at the Royal Botanic Gardens, Tim Entwisle.