State government’s infrastructure program to be impacted, VTA’s Anderson says
The latest intrusion of party politics into crucial infrastructure decisions is a development met with concern at the Victorian Transport Association (VTA) and will be central to its Port Outlook 2015 seminar.
The Victorian Opposition’s decision to block legislation to enable the lease of the Port of Melbourne is causing havoc for the State Government’s infrastructure program, the state industry organisation says.
“Negotiations concerning the immediate and long-term future of the Port of Melbourne have far reaching implications for all Victorians,” VTA CEO Peter Anderson says.
“A privatised port will inevitably impact supply chains for producers and manufacturers that are exposed to port activities, in the form of higher user costs and new operating conditions.
“On the flipside, blocked legislation will mean there are no funds for the State Government’s level crossing removal program, which will see congestion on Melbourne’s road network escalate, much to the frustration of all road users.”
The outlook in and around the waterfront will be tackled by seminar speakers focusing on it on other issues across the modes on July 14, with the theme being ‘navigating change’.
“Seminar speakers will address a range of issues including the commercial and practical implications of leasing the port, future freight forecasts, and road and rail port access issues.”
Registration is available online here