A Wyndham councillor has called for all tiers of government to work together to sync infrastructure development with population growth.
Cr John Gibbons’ comments come as recent council data reveals more than 6500 housing lots were approved across the municipality over the past financial year, meaning the population could soar by up to 16,000 people.
“Wyndham residents are already frustrated with the lack of infrastructure in comparison to population growth,” Cr Gibbons said. “Between 2014 and 2015, Wyndham had the largest growth in Victoria, with more than 10,000 people moving to the area.
“The growth is clearly not slowing down, and we need the state and federal governments to step up and help us tackle the issue.”
He said residents had made it clear they wanted more infrastructure to match the population growth.
“So far, this has not been happening in line with the rate of housing approvals,” he said.
Point Cook Action Group president Tony Hooper applauded the council for raising the issue, but said it isn’t a new problem.
“Point Cook Action Group has been battling for years to have more infrastructure going in, not only at Point Cook, but Wyndham as a whole,” he said.
“It’s good to see council finally starting to acknowledge pressure points for the community.”
He said jobs, schools, more police resources, roads, an ambulance station and facilities for victims of domestic violence were among the most pressing issues for Wyndham people.
Ratepayers of Werribee South president Joe Garra said main infrastructure needs in Werribee South were roads, internet and water.
“Duncans Road is a mess,” he said. “It has been badly damaged by trucks in the construction of Wyndham Harbour.”
He acknowledged the road is the responsibility of VicRoads, but said there needs to be action.
More water for market gardeners and a better internet connection were also among the needs of Werribee South residents, he said.
