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Railway announcement welcomed
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Posted: 30/05/2008
WODONGA Council has welcomed the Victorian Government’s announcement to standardise the Seymour to Albury railway line and proceed with the removal of the railway line from the centre of Wodonga.
Wodonga Mayor Cr Rodney Wangman said the bypass announcement, which is backed by both Victorian and Federal government funding, realises a rare opportunity to renew the heart of Wodonga.
“The people of Wodonga have patiently awaited this outcome and now there will be an immediate period of relief as we absorb this wonderful news,” he said.
“Together, we can share the excitement of the changes ahead and I believe each of our residents should take great pride in the part they have all played in advocating for the Wodonga rail bypass.
“We have been advised that preliminary work will start in the next few weeks, with the major part of the project to be under way by the end of the year.”
Cr Wangman acknowledged the efforts of many people who have been part of the journey, including past mayors and councillors, present councillors, council and governmental staff and residents who had lobbied for the change.
He also thanked outgoing CEO of Wodonga Council, Peter Marshall, for his efforts in working towards the railway line’s removal.
“Finally, my thanks to Victorian Premier John Brumby, who I know has taken a personal interest in this project for some time, and as each difficulty arose, ensured that there were ways to get around the issue and help us go forward,” he said.
“The commencement of the project will be an historic occasion for Wodonga and a great day for residents.”
Cr Wangman said Wodonga would be able to move forward to make High St a more pedestrian and traffic-friendly street, which would in turn rejuvenate the city.
“Zoning and urban planning design principles are prepared, and the High St redevelopment and social transition have commenced, which are both important steps in allowing us to breath life back into our central business district, ” he said.
“As a city, our CBD redevelopment is ready to start, offering retail and commercial options that can abound for many, many years ahead.”
For more information and to see the proposed route, click here:
