Have your say on distributor

The public has the chance to provide feedback on the Western Distributor project this month.

The State Government last month released the scoping requirements that will shape the Environmental Effects Statement (EES) for the project and the public can now comment on these requirements before they are finalised.

The project is likely to have a significant impact on Docklands and the neighbouring, currently undeveloped, E-Gate precinct.

The current proposal includes an elevated road above Footscray Rd and three CBD exits, including one that cuts through the 20-hectare E-Gate site, effectively halving the available land.

The Western Distributor proposal also includes two additional lanes in each direction on the Westgate Freeway, between the M80 Ring Road and Williamstown Rd, and a tunnel under Yarraville. The key aims of the project are easing pressure on the M1 corridor, taking trucks off inner-west roads and providing an alternative to the West Gate Bridge.

The scoping requirements currently available for public comment will outline the matters to be investigated and documented in the EES.

The EES itself is expected to examine a number of issues, including public and stakeholder consultation, predictions of significant environmental effects, proposed measured to avoid, minimise or manage adverse environmental effects and a proposed program for monitoring and managing environmental effects during project implementation.

According to Planning Minister Richard Wynne everyone will have the chance to examine the scope of the EES, view the available information and have their say.

“The EES is the proper process for assessment of this project and will ensure we get the right information and make the best decisions about how the much needed $5.5 billion Western Distributor Project comes together,” Mr Wynne said.

Residents and businesses will also be able to make submissions as part of the EES process over the next few months and a report will be prepared and submitted to Mr Wynne.

The community will also be able to have input at community consultation sessions in April.

The sessions are expected to be held along the route of the project and will display plans, maps and other information. Technical specialists will also be available to answer questions.

The scoping requirements are available online at delwp.vic.gov.au/planning/environmental-assessment/western-distributor-project

Submissions can be made by emailing [email protected]