A NEW political party has set its sights on the Lalor electorate, believing it epitomises the problems of uncontrolled population growth and urban sprawl.
Jonathan Page will stand for the Stable Population Party at the next federal election.
Mr Page, who lives in Bentleigh but has family in Point Cook, said the party wanted to give voters a chance to voice concerns about population growth.
He said Lalor, which spans Wyndham and parts of Hobsons Bay, was a perfect example of how urban sprawl could have negative impacts on people’s lives and the environment.
“I have seen first-hand how congested the roads in Point Cook can be. I recently drove from the south-east [suburbs] to Point Cook and
I was amazed at how many drivers were using the Point Cook freeway exit. Our roads are stretched to the limit.
“Population growth is continuing to put more pressure on people and not offering any benefits because services aren’t keeping pace.”
The party’s policies include controlling migrant and refugee intakes; increasing infrastructure such as hospitals, schools and roads; minimising urban sprawl and high-density living; and protecting the environment.
Mr Page said for areas like Wyndham, managed population growth could relieve infrastructure issues, ease cost-of-living pressures and reduce housing costs.
A “conservationist at heart”, Mr Page said controlling growth would also protect the environment.
