The newly elected federal government says Melbourne’s infamous East West Link is officially “dead” the same day construction began on the suburban rail circuit.
Infrastructure Minister Catherine King has declared the $ 4 billion announced by the previous government for the East West Link non-existent, saying there is no money set aside to build it.
“There’s no money, there’s absolutely no money. It’s a total scam,” King said.
Infrastructure Minister Catherine King said Melbourne’s infamous East West Link was officially “dead”. (new)
“He’s dead in the water as far as we’re concerned.”
The government has so far allocated $ 2 billion for the construction of a $ 35 billion suburban Rail Loop, and more are expected to be announced.
Prime Minister Daniel Andrews marked the time when the excavator started the road, meeting with hired graduates to help build it today.
“Both public transport and roads will simply not work without this project,” he said.
Extending 26 miles from Cheltenham to Box Hill, the first step of the first stage begins small, with a new 650-meter sewer line.
The suburban rail link will run from Cheltenham to Box Hill. (new)
“Cheltenham in Box Hill, just 22 minutes,” Andrews said.
Opposition leader Matthew Guy said the money set aside for the loop was not responsible.
“The concept of a lot of things is good, but if you’re just going to throw a blank check, it’s not responsible,” he said.