Rush for the crossing

By Bridget Cook
THE Springvale level crossing has become a hot topic in Lyndhurst this State Election, with both the State Opposition and the Greens pledging to fix the notorious crossing if elected.
Last week Liberal candidate for Lyndhurst Tony Holland pledged $140 million in the first term to the project if he was elected.
In the same week, Greens candidate for Lyndhurst Nina Springle promised to match the pledge if elected.
“The Greens have committed to phasing out all level crossings as well as improving the bus-train interface,” she said.
“An ongoing program of grade separations is needed as we increase train frequencies. “Springvale is high on our list of priorities for that redevelopment.”
Ms Springle said eradicating the Springvale level crossing was important for a number of reasons.
“The most obviousbeing community safety,” she said.
Making the announcement last week, Mr Holland said the Liberal plan would separate cars and trains, along with pedestrians and bikes, to free up this intersection.
“The Coalition will consult with local communities and businesses with the intention of relocating Springvale Railway Station to a lower level to preserve the streetscape and minimise disruption to local residents and small businesses,” Mr Holland said.
“The new stationwill include ramps or subways to ensure full compliance with the Disability Discrimination Act and provide full accessto Victorians with a dis-ability.”
However a Labor Government spokesman said Mr Baillieu would promise anything for votes, and then abandon voters at his earliest convenience.
“The projects Mr Baillieu has committed to are yet again uncosted – and he won’t say how he will pay for them,” he said.
Another key issue of the election is the Dingley bypass.
Labor pledged $20 million to plan the Kingston stage of the bypass and the Liberals $55 million for planning and construction.
For more State Election information and candidate profiles turn to pages 6 and 7.