Media Release

Mooroolbark Station will get extra parking spaces, with the Shire of Yarra Ranges Council closing in on finalising a deal with Victrack.

The deal will end a long campaign by Kilsyth MP David Hodgett and local traders, who have sought a deal where Victrack could acquire Shire owned land near the station that could accommodate the much needed spaces.

Mr Hodgett said: “My information is that the Shire has agreed in principle to finalise the negotiations, meaning once Victrack put a formal offer to council based on Valuer General valuations, the deal will be made.”

“This is fantastic news for commuters and traders in Mooroolbark. For too long, the parking has been an issue there, and it will be great to finally see some resolution.”

Mr Hodgett first called for an upgrade in Parliament last March, and after months of campaigning, pleaded for Transport Minister Lynne Kosky to intervene in October.

“As we have seen in recent times, the Minister clearly isn’t interested in improving the public transport system for Victorian commuters, so while it is disappointing that Ms Kosky refused to step in and help, it is great to see that the Shire and Victrack are closing in on finalising a deal on their own,” Mr Hodgett said.

“The new spaces will allow commuters long term parking at the station, and will prevent shop front spaces being filled up by station patrons, which had become the cause of great concern for local traders as it was driving away potential customers.”

The Shire of Yarra Ranges Council owns a section of land surrounding the existing parking spaces at Mooroolbark Railway Station which Victrack is seeking to obtain to construct additional parking.