MARIBYRNONG CITY COUNCIL, VIC. — Residents in West Footscray, Tottenham and Yarraville have told Maribyrnong Council they are worried about new power poles and other works in their streets. This is an update following a statement on Friday, September 4.
Council met with Jemena, Zinfra and others involved in the works. Maribyrnong City Council put the community’s concerns directly to them and asked them to improve the way these works are planned, communicated and delivered.
Council isn’t required to provide planning approval for these works. Earlier this year, we were contacted about the permits needed to work within the road reserve. Those permits were not approved.
There are different packages of works taking place. Some current works are for the data centre in West Footscray, while others relate to upgrades to ageing power infrastructure in Yarraville.
The size and width of the poles that have been installed for the data centre are particularly concerning. We are pushing for this infrastructure to be underground.
We share the community’s frustration. Residents deserve clear answers about what is planned, why it is needed, when it will happen and what it will mean for their streets, trees and homes.
Melbourne needs reliable power as it grows. But that doesn’t mean local impacts should simply be accepted. Maribyrnong City Council residents ‘have a right to be upset’.
Residents are asking fair questions. Why are such large poles needed? What will happen to trees and vegetation? What other options were considered? And can the works be changed to reduce the impact on local streets and neighbourhoods?
Maribyrnong City Council is writing to the Australian Energy Regulator, Energy Safe Victoria and relevant State and Federal Ministers. Maribyrnong City Council will ask them to visit the area and see the impacts firsthand.
Maribyrnong City Council wants local concerns properly considered, and wants to understand where the project can be changed to better protect local streets, trees and neighbourhood character.
Maribyrnong City Council will also continue their conversations with Jemina and Zinfra and will be pushing for much clearer communication with residents.
