Member for Wollongong, Paul Scully today said the clock is ticking on community consultations on the concept design for the upgrade of Unanderra Station which closes 5pm this Friday.
Mr Scully has provided Transport for NSW with his suggestions for improving the design and functionality of the upgrade by:
- Covering the walkway connecting the three lifts and the station platform;
- Installing additional Opal Card readers at the base of the eastern and western stairway and lifts entry;
- Installing solar panels and energy storage facility;
- Installing new noticeboard on western side of the station; and
- Eastern-side ‘kiss and ride’ area to allow the inclusion of additional car parking.
Mr Scully said, “I encourage commuters who use Unanderra Station every day in particular to make sure they have their say on the concept designs to upgrade their local station.
“The local community of Unanderra and surrounding suburbs have waited a very long time for the upgrade of Unanderra Station.
“The consultation process is designed to attract comments and suggestions to make sure the practical functionality of the upgrade to Unanderra station is taken into account before the construction work starts.
“I think everyone wants to make sure we get this long-awaited upgrade spot on.
“Consultations formally close on Friday, 24 April 2020 and I want to make sure that everybody who wants to provide comments and suggestions for improvements to the concept design have that opportunity.”
Mr Scully has also written to the Minister for Transport and Roads, Andrew Constance MP, foreshadowing that the COVID-19 virus pandemic has by social distancing necessity curtailed the community consultation process, but this should not be “interpreted as a reduction in the level of interest in either the concept plan or the upgrade itself. The community desire to see Unanderra Station upgraded remains as strong as it has ever been.”
Mr Scully said that once the concept designs are finalised the next stages of the project included its final planning approvals, funding allocation, and awarding of the contract to deliver the upgrade.
It is expected construction work will start in mid-2021 and the lifts will be ready to use in 2022.
Mr Scully said, “I still hope we might be able to bring the planned timetable forward by including the project in the $500 million COVID-19 capital works funding announced on 17 March 2020.
“The upgrade of Unanderra Station would be an ideal shovel ready project to stimulate local economic activity and support local jobs.”
Feedback can be provided to Transport for NSW on 1800 684 490, or by email at [email protected] or by visiting www.transport.nsw.gov.au/unanderra
Anyone who does not have online access can also contact Mr Scully’s office on 4226 5700.
