WYNDHAM is set to expand further with the council granted federal government funds to develop a new community at Tarneit West.
The council will use the $448,500 Liveable Cities grant to plan and design a sustainable community next to Tarneit West railway station on the Regional Rail Link.
It will be developed on a 113-hectare site at 1160 Sayers Road, which the council purchased in 2010.
Mayor Kim McAliney said the master plan for the new community would look to support sustainable development through good urban design, maximise local jobs and reduce car dependency and road congestion.
“The town centre, schools, community and leisure facilities will be built around the Regional Rail Link, improving access to public transport and reducing reliance on cars,” she said.
“We will reduce greenhouse emissions by supporting sustainable design and construction, using water sensitive design and optimising tree canopy.
“Local jobs will be created and encouraged, removing the need for residents to commute, and developing the local economy.”
The project will cost $1.06million, with the council to provide $583,500, and in-kind support.
RMIT University’s Centre for Design, the Green Building Council of Australia, Growth Areas Authority, Natural Resources Conservation League and the Department of Transport will jointly develop the master plan.
Prime Minister Julia Gillard said the project would address challenges like climate change, a lack of affordable housing and traffic congestion.
