In the lead up to the March state election there have been a number of announcements including a $10 million boost for Maddington.
On February 3 Member for Gosnells Chris Tallentire was joined by the shadow minister for water Dave Kelly and City of Gosnells mayor Olwen Searle at the corner of Olga Road and Albany Highway in Maddington for the announcement.
Mr Tallentire said the money would pay to kick-start the Maddington Town Centre regeneration, a redevelopment which is being hampered by the current alignment of the Albany Highway.
He also said the funds would pay to relocate the water main, which runs under Albany Highway and with the pipe moved Main Roads could improve traffic flow.
“I have worked hard for this result by raising the matter in Parliament first and then writing to the water minister,” he said.
“The City of Gosnells has done the most amazing work over the years and to get ready for this most exciting renewal of Maddington.
“They are ready to accelerate their plans and there’s an urgent need for action.”
Mr Tallentire said the work would foreshadow Labor’s Metronet plan.
“What this means is that a new Maddington Station with shops or apartments over the top and nearby could release all the vale of the investment and more,” he said.
Ms Searle said the current situation had hampered the city’s plans to improve traffic movement and revitalise the Maddington Town Centre.
“Lowering the pipe will enable smoother traffic flow,” she said.
“There will be less congestion and fewer delays in a very busy part of Albany Highway.
“It will also act a catalyst for further transit orientated development around the Maddington train station.”
Liberal Member for Thornlie Rob Coales said although he was committed to making Maddington an attractive and vibrant place to live he has reservations about moving the water mains.
“While I am seeking formal advice on the proposal,” he said.
“I question its initial value for money.”
Mr Coales also said Labor’s Metronet was re-hashed, ill conceived and essentially un-costed.
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