THE City of Whittlesea is doubling down on looking for continued support for Donnybrook Road, calling on the community to make themselves heard.
With Donnybrook Road constantly under pressure during peak hours, and adding congestion and delays for local commuters, affecting employment, education, public transport and essential services in the process, Council is now advocating for a commitment by the State Government to upgrading the road fully.
That would guarantee a full commitment ahead of the State Election in November, with the Liberal and Nationals committing to a full duplication of Donnybrook Road if elected with a $524 million duplication commitment.
Under the commitment, the entire eight-kilometre section from Epping Road in Woodstock to Dwyer Street in Kalkallo would be duplicated, and the level crossing at Donnybrook Train Station would also be removed.
At the moment, Donnybrook Road will be upgraded in two stages, going from the exit to the Hume Freeway northbound to Dwyer Street in Kalkallo.
Council says it is one of four key advocacy priorities for the upcoming election, which also includes a rail line to Wollert, an aquatics and leisure facility in Mernda and a dedicated youth centre.
The City of Whittlesea also released a video which shows the need for an upgrade to Donnybrook Road, and has now called for residents to support the campaign, in which they can do so at engage.whittlesea.vic.gov.au/donnybrookroad
City of Whittlesea Mayor Councillor Lawrie Cox said it was worthwhile investing in Donnybrook Road.
“Our community is growing rapidly, and the infrastructure people rely on every day needs to keep pace,” he said.
“For people living in Donnybrook and our growing northern communities, this isn’t just about a road. It’s about getting to work, school, public transport and essential services safely and reliably.
“We welcome investment already committed to Donnybrook Road, but there is more work to do. We will continue advocating for the full upgrade, and we encourage our community to add their voice to our campaign.”