Hume residents will benefit from investment in local schools and early education and critical road upgrades delivered as part of the 2020/21 Victorian State Budget.
Key projects to be receive funding include $15.5 million to progress planning for the Bulla Bypass and Mickleham Road duplication; the rejuvenation of four local schools in Meadow Heights, Jacana, Mickleham and Sunbury West; and the Jacksons Hill development.
Mayor of Hume City, Councillor Joseph Haweil said he was appreciative of the investment to support residents in the recovery from COVID-19.
“2020 has been a year like no other. It’s pleasing to see that significant investment will be made in getting people back into work and supporting mental health,” Cr Haweil said.
“Two of our key transport priorities – the Bulla Bypass and duplication of Mickleham Road – are now progressing to ensure that once subsequent capital funding is made available, our residents will spend less time on the road and more time with their family and friends.
“Council welcomes funding to support the revitalisation of Broadmeadows and will continue to work with the Broadmeadows Revitalisation Board to put forward our proposals for funding consideration.
“We will also continue to work cooperatively with the State Government to recast the area and surrounding precinct into a vibrant transport, housing and community hub, in line with its regional role as the capital of Melbourne’s north, and community expectations.”
The State Government’s historic investment in public housing renewal is also welcomed.
“Council expects that large parts of the public housing stock in Broadmeadows and surrounds will benefit from the State Government’s landmark commitment of $5.3 billion to the Public Housing Renewal Program.”
Council also welcomes the investment made in local primary schools and funding to acquire land for the future Merrifield West Secondary School (interim name).
“With rapid population growth in Mickleham and Kalkallo, we have long identified the need for investment in schools in the north of our city.
“Upgraded and new schools will remove the need for residents to look at education options outside of their local community.”
The Budget also includes $4.4 million to ensure heritage protection for Jacksons Hill in Sunbury to maintain its numerous heritage-listed buildings and protect the site’s surrounds while a master plan is developed.
“A growing city like Hume needs to work in partnership with other levels of government to develop our community. We would like to thank local MP’s Ros Spence, Josh Bull and Frank McGuire for their support in securing funding in the state budget.”
State Budget highlights for Hume include:
