By Bonny Burrows
Work is underway at the massive, state-of-the-art train depot in Pakenham East, boosting local jobs.
The 118-hectare facility, with shedding the size of 67 Olympic swimming pools, will be used to maintain the State Government’s new fleet of high-capacity metro trains (HCMTs).
Featuring maintenance facilities, a driver training centre, a train simulator and stabling for up to 30 trains, the $280 million factory is being built with 87 per cent local content by a 400-strong team made up of at least a 60 per cent local workforce.
Another 100 ongoing jobs will become available once construction is complete.
During a visit to the Oakview Lane site on Tuesday, Premier Daniel Andrews said the project gave disadvantaged people “a chance” at employment, through a minimum 15 per cent workforce of apprentices and 7 per cent from low-socioeconomic backgrounds.
Cardinia Shire Council Mayor Brett Owen said with 40 new families moving to the shire each week it was important the area attracted as many jobs as it could.
“And with 70 per cent of our residents leaving the area for work, we welcome these local jobs,” councillor Owen said.
With works on the depot underway, Cr Owen said the council would advocate for government funding to improve surrounding infrastructure.
Of particular importance to Cr Owen was the upgrade of Kooweerup Road between the freeway and Bald Hill Road because it was “important for this part of Pakenham, particularly now this major project is underway”.
