My question is to the Minister for Environment, and I ask what are the next steps the Victorian Government is taking to deliver an uplift to Merri Common in my Electorate of Northcote?

Residents living in the area around Merri Train Station have long advocated for improvements to the Merri Common, an important local reserve in our busy urban suburbs.

We were thrilled when the Labor Government committed $1.5 million for the design and delivery of upgrades to this space.

Since then, it’s been a long road through the bureaucracy of Metro, VicTrack and Darebin Council.

But I’m excited to inform residents that we are getting closer, with Darebin Council having agreed to appoint a project manager and begin early preparations for community consultation.

Excitingly, the funding envelope has allowed us to expand the scope of the project to Peters Reserve nearby which has a much-loved kids playground.

Just a few weeks back my family joined in celebrating 20 years since locals rallied together to save Peters Reserve from being sold by the Council – an outstanding example of community advocacy!

Speaker, residents will welcome knowing next steps on the $1.5 million commitment to improve these vital open spaces in Westgarth.