By Molly Magennis
Works have begun on former sewer reserve set to be transformed into a series of parklands across Melbourne’s west, the state government has announced.
The Greening the Pipeline project, in partnership with Wyndham council and the Bunurong Land Council Aboriginal Corporation, will run all the way from Truganina to Laverton.
The $9 million project will transform the decommissioned heritage-listed sewer pipeline that extends for 27-kilometres along Federation Trail into parks and will include a 22-megalitre stormwater harvesting and irrigation system that will ensure the park is kept green and healthy all year round.
They will work to ensure that Traditional Owner values are included in the park’s design and
creation.
Tarneit MP Sarah Connolly said it was good to finally see the space being used for something that the whole community can use.
“It’s great to see how this underutilised space will be transformed into a thriving stretch of parklands, providing beautiful open spaces for future generations to enjoy,” she said.
The project is part of the Labor government’s $174 million investment to deliver the Suburban Parks Program.
Water parliamentary secretary Harriet Shing said projects like which utilise stormwater harvesting systems create a more natural water cycle.
“….they help save our drinking water supplies while maximising liveability and resilience in urban areas,” she said.
Energy, environment and climate change minister Lily D’Ambrosio said: “The new linear parkland will improve access to open space in Melbourne’s west, helping the community connect with nature.”
The first section of new parkland between Skeleton Creek and Lawrie Emmins Reserve is set to open mid-year.
