Bellarine Link draws mixed response from Corangamite candidates

THE City of Greater Geelong’s calls last week for all candidates running in Corangamite in the coming federal election to commit funding to the stalled Bellarine Link project has drawn mixed responses.

The project, which would connect Baanip Boulevard at the Surf Coast Highway with Barwon Heads Road, has been billed as a way to ease traffic congestion in the area, as well as create a more direct link between Melbourne, Geelong and the Bellarine Peninsula.

“We need infrastructure that keeps pace with community need,” Geelong mayor Stretch Kontelj said.

Incumbent Corangamite MP Libby Coker, who presently holds the seat by 7.6 per cent, said the Bellarine Link had the potential to be an amazing connection that could serve the region for decades to come.

“The Albanese Labor government is committed to delivering the infrastructure projects our region needs and deserves.

“As with any infrastructure proposal, it will be considered.”

But Greens candidate Mitch Pope, whose federal election campaign has a strong focus on climate action, said long-term solutions to traffic congestion were needed as the region continues to grow.

“Building new roads isn’t going to solve traffic congestion issues… it acts as a band-aid solution.

“I would like to see more funding for better public transport networks between the Bellarine, Geelong and the Surf Coast, as well as safer bike paths for active transport.”

He said with more funding and better public transport incentives, it can be easier and cheaper for people jump on the bus, and pointed to Queensland’s recently adopted 50 cent public transport fares, a policy also adopted by the Greens.

His call for a greater focus on public transport and safer bike paths was seconded by Voices of Corangamite spokesperson Kate Lockhart.

The group was formed in Geelong in 2021 and is seeking a candidate to contest the seat.

“Reducing truck congestion on local streets is a positive step toward making our towns and suburbs more walkable, cyclable and liveable,” Ms Lockhart said.

“At the same time, we believe it’s crucial to ensure that any new infrastructure project is planned with a long-term vision for sustainability and community benefit.”

She called for a “clear map and business case” to understand how the project fits into the region’s broader transport network, as well as more information on its potential environmental impacts and the cost effectiveness of the proposed road links.

“Ultimately, we see this as an opportunity to correct past planning mistakes and make smart, forward-thinking transport decisions that prioritise people, connectivity and sustainability,” Lockhart said.

Liberal Party candidate Darcy Dunstan was also contacted for comment but had not responded as this newspaper went to print.