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VTA welcomes new Victorian Premier Daniel Andrews

While East-West Link is off the agenda, VTA boss Peter Anderson says there is plenty of common ground between the transport industry and the incoming Labor government.

 

The Victorian Transport Association (VTA) has congratulated Victorian premier-elect Daniel Andrews and the Labor Party for their win in Saturday’s State election.

The industry body says it is looking forward to working with the new government on a range of issues vital to Victoria’s economy and industry.

Since claiming victory, Andrews has reiterated Labor’s commitment to cancel the planned East-West Link toll road and tunnel in Melbourne.

The VTA was in favour of that project, but CEO Peter Anderson says there are several other infrastructure needs that the organisation will now lobby for.

“The VTA eagerly awaits proposed road infrastructure initiatives such as the WestGate Distributor, but urges the Andrews Labor government to look to the future and deliver other vital infrastructure,” Anderson says.

“It is imperative that further east-west connection to the Port of Melbourne precinct and the M80 ring road are delivered if the state is to secure its long term economic viability.”

Other issues the VTA says will require “immediate” attention from the new government include an alternative Maribyrnong River crossing in addition to the West Gate Bridge and addressing the disconnect between expected freight volumes at the Webb Dock redevelopment and the existing road network.

Anderson also wants an end to toll increases that single out heavy vehicles and for Andrews to develop a comprehensive 10-year plan for road infrastructure, maintenance and management across Victoria.

“The VTA looks forward to working collaboratively with the newly formed Andrews Labor government and authorities to facilitate effective and efficient freight routes across the State,” Anderson says.

A meeting between the VTA leadership and expected roads minister Luke Donnellan is scheduled for next week.

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