Deakin welcomes decision to approve Burwood Link proposal

Deakin welcomes the decision of the Minister for Planning, the Hon Richard Wynne MP to approve the planning scheme amendment and permit construction of the new Burwood Link, a vital pedestrian crossing between the two sides of its Burwood campus.

Acting Vice-Chancellor Professor Gary Smith said the current crossing is dangerous and falls well short of being disability compliant.

“The new pedestrian crossing will link Deakin and the Burwood community in a safe and accessible way,” Professor Smith said.

“Minister Wynne’s decision paves the way for Deakin to now get on with the job of planning the construction of the new Burwood Link.

“In making his decision, Minister Wynne accepted Deakin’s submission that the project is of state and metropolitan significance and that the Burwood campus is a driver of social and economic activity in the region.”

Professor Smith said pedestrian access between the two sides of its Burwood campus is increasingly difficult and unsafe and breaches the Disability Discrimination Act (DDA)1992.

“We have reached a critical stage where the new crossing is urgently required so we can provide a safe, modern and non-discriminatory campus,” he said.

“The new Burwood Link proposal is an accessible, environmentally-friendly structure that reflects community feedback and is a significant improvement on the previous design.

“Most importantly, it will end the discrimination against people with disabilities and provide a safe crossing for students, staff, cyclists, the elderly and parents with prams and strollers.”

Deakin will keep the community updated as the construction of the Burwood Link progresses. More information is available at www.deakin.edu.au/burwood-link