Why is there no business group in Pakenham?

There are some big things happening in and around Pakenham as it transitions from a country town to the eastern entry point for Melbourne.

The region is still a major growth zone, with six families a day moving in.

The big retailers – most recently Kmart and Kaufland – and eyeing off possibilities here, and all the major supermarkets have multiple stores. They see its potential.

The Victorian Government is building a super-station to replace the current railway station at Pakenham in coming years. This will provide huge impetus to the centre of town.

The land south of the bypass between Pakenham and Officer is to be a state significant employment zone. New factories seems to be going up there every week.

The new suburb of Pakenham East is not even built yet, but is well into the planning stage.

Major planning by Cardinia Shire Council has been undertaken affecting central Pakenham, including a parking strategy and precinct structure plan. These include turning Main Street into a mall and permitting buildings up to six storeys high, with residential space over office and retail space – a ready-made market at the doorstep.

But where is the voice for business.

It just seems an insane situation to me that with all this activity there’s no group to run the promotions and organise the events that give people reasons to visit, shop and enjoy what Pakenham has to offer.

Business people are used to the idea of risk, they’re not shy in dealing with people and tough issues, and they’re not afraid of hard work.

So who will stand up for businesses in Pakenham, who will set aside their personal agendas to speak up for the benefit of all.

Pakenham needs it – Pakenham deserves it – Pakenham demands it.

– Andrew Cantwell

andrew.cantwell@starnewsgroup.com.au