Standing up for Knox this election
Council has welcomed funding commitments from the Government and Opposition for important community facilities, as it also highlights the need for better roads and public transport ahead of the May federal election.
Council has welcomed $9.55M in pledges for three sports pavilion redevelopments in Knox as it advocates for greater investment to bring local sporting facilities up to standard.
Federal Member for Aston Mary Doyle has announced that a re-elected Labor Government would provide $1.8M to redevelop the pavilion at Carrington Park Reserve in Knoxfield and $3M for the pavilion at Templeton Reserve in Wantirna.
Liberal candidate for Aston Manny Cicchiello has pledged $4.75M to update the pavilion at Knox Park in Knoxfield, if a Liberal Government is elected.
Knox Mayor, Councillor Lisa Cooper said Council has been advocating for funding towards upgrading clubrooms, sports grounds and sports field lighting across Knox.
“Knox has 40 clubrooms at its sporting reserves with many built in the ’70s and ’80s that fail to meet contemporary standards and guidelines,” she said.
“This funding will help to deliver modern facilities at these three reserves that meet the growth in junior and female participation in sport.
Knox United Soccer Club, Knoxfield Cricket Club, Templeton Cricket Club, Wantirna South Junior Football Club and Knox Churches soccer and cricket clubs will be among the beneficiaries of upgrades at these three reserves.
Council also welcomes a $2.5M pledge for a new Resource and Visitor Centre next to historic Ambleside Park Homestead in Ferntree Gully, if a Liberal Government is elected.
“This will support the important work of the Knox Historical Society,” Cr Cooper said.
“Importantly, the new facilities will support visitors’ access to the impressive collection of documents, maps, photographs and artefacts, and support school and community programs.”
Cr Cooper said all levels of government play a role in ensuring our community thrives.
“In the lead up to the federal election, we’ve been meeting with our local federal Member of Parliament and candidates to ensure our community has an elevated voice,” she said.
“In addition to the need for facility improvements, we’ve been raising issues about the lack of public transport, congestion and safety concerns on our roads.
“It’s pleasing that the Australian and Victorian governments have committed $10M towards upgrading the intersection of High Street Road and Mowbray Drive in Wantirna South. This is one of several high priority intersections Council has been advocating for safety improvements.
“Council is also seeking funding for road and transport projects including the Dorset Road extension, Napoleon and Wellington Road upgrades, the trackless tram between Caulfield and Rowville and Route 75 tram extension.
“Improving roads and public transport in Melbourne’s outer suburbs is critical for supporting population and housing growth.
“We need investment in a transport network that strengthens Knox’s competitiveness for jobs and investment, and increases local access to employment, education, business, health and entertainment needs,” Cr Cooper said.
Photo: Templeton Cricket Club is a tenant club of Templeton Reserve where $3M has been pledged for a pavilion redevelopment.
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