With the North East Link Program (NELP) underway, we’re continuing to represent community interests and advocate for Manningham.

We recognise the project will have a significant impact on our community, both positive and adverse. We’re working to ensure that any adverse impacts are mitigated, as far as practicable, and are strongly advocating for an overall community benefit.

To date, we’ve undertaken significant strategic work and advocacy, including contributing to the:

• North East Link Environment Effects Statement (EES)
• Judicial Review
• Urban Design Landscape Plan (UDLP) for the Central (Tunnels) Package
• UDLP for the Eastern Freeway Upgrades

In addition, we’ve reviewed more than 160 design reports and 400 Traffic Management Plans for construction work. Our Parks team has also undertaken a comprehensive tree planting program to offset future impacts to vegetation.

We’ve achieved many positive outcomes and delivery of community facilities, as a result of ongoing advocacy and contribution to the planning of the project. These include:

• a redevelopment and masterplan for Bulleen Park (AFL / cricket)
• new soccer facilities (3 pitches and pavilion) at Templestowe Road, Bulleen
• a new pedestrian/cycling bridge at Banksia Park (Bulleen) across the Yarra River
• a new Bulleen Park & Ride facility to support the Doncaster Busway
• protection of the 300+ year old River Red Gum tree in Bulleen
• negotiated to plan for surplus land at the former Bulleen Industrial Precinct to support a future employment precinct at this location
• a commitment to undertake a business case to duplicate Templestowe Road and include walking and cycling facilities.

In recent months, we’ve heard from community members regarding their concerns about the impacts of NELP construction, as activity in Manningham ramps up. This includes, but is not limited to, issues of noise, dust, vibrations and road disruptions.

We’ll continue to raise concerns on behalf of our community and work with NELP to enhance communication with the locally affected community.    

We’ll keep working diligently alongside the NELP team and State Government on all aspects of the project as construction progresses.

Councillor Deirdre Diamante, has also met with local MPs and written to the Minister for Transport Infrastructure, on behalf of the Council and community. Cr Diamante highlighted growing concerns from the Manningham community as NELP construction continues to increase.

Learn more about how we're representing community interests and advocating for Manningham here.