By Bonny Burrows
Pakenham East is expected to boom in coming years, with the locality named as one of 17 new suburbs across Greater Melbourne.
Plans for the Pakenham East Precinct Structure Plan are in “very early” stages, with consultations occurring between Cardinia Shire Council and the Victorian Planning Authority.
Initial ideas for the suburb – bordered by Deep Creek and Ryan Road to the west, Mount Ararat Road to the east and the Princes Freeway to the south – include one main town centre and possibly an additional local centre, up to two sporting field complexes, schools to service community demand and local parks within walking distance of residents.
Pakenham East and the 16 other new communities were chosen by the State Government due to rapid population growth.
Developed under its Streamlining for Growth program, the government will fast-track the suburbs’ planning approval process to create quicker subdivision approvals, with strategic planning support offered to local council to help clear backlogs that help unlock strategic development sites.
Victorian Treasurer Tim Pallas said the government was helping make housing more affordable through the supply of lots with good access to jobs, schools, hospitals and public transport.
“The increase in supply is also a boost to the construction industry, creating jobs in the growth corridors, as well as in established suburbs,” Mr Pallas said.
The suburb of Pakenham East is expected to be developed over “many years”.
