Cairnlea Development Plan Under Review
A draft plan for the initial stage of a housing development in Cairnlea, proposing 500 dwellings, is currently under consideration by Planning Minister Sonya Kilkenny. The development's website indicates that land sales could commence this year, with construction projected to begin in 2027-28.
Community Concerns and Proposals
Community members have raised several concerns regarding the development, particularly its proximity to electronic gaming machine venues. Petitioners are advocating for the inclusion of an indoor multipurpose recreational facility, featuring a pool, parks, and sporting fields, alongside the proposed housing options. Local residents highlight that the nearest public swimming pools in Keilor Downs and Sunshine are approximately 45 and 25 minutes away by bus, respectively, and are often at capacity with unreliable bus services.
A resident, Blore, stated that while he does not oppose the construction of houses, he supports the integration of sporting facilities in the western section of the site. He suggests these facilities could serve as a buffer zone between the residential areas and nearby pubs. Blore also requested further details on the housing layout and assurances that proposed parks would be substantial rather than minimal. Concerns were articulated that a lack of alternative community amenities could lead residents to frequent local electronic gaming machine venues. Brimbank holds the highest electronic gaming machine losses in Victoria, with council figures indicating over $98,000 lost daily at the two pubs near the development site.
Cairnlea resident Sara Roca expressed concerns about a potential increase in traffic volume due to the additional 500 houses, noting that her morning commute out of the area already exceeds 20 minutes. Roca stated that while a community facility may not resolve all existing issues, it could represent an initial step towards improvement.
Expert Analysis and Historical Context
Cairnlea, formerly the site of the Albion explosives factory, has seen the construction of approximately 3100 homes, a shopping center, and open spaces since its remediation. The current proposal targets the last vacant land parcel in the suburb, which is also the furthest from existing amenities.
Dr. Weijie Hu, a senior lecturer at Swinburne University specializing in affordable housing research, affirmed the strong demand for affordable housing in Melbourne's west. He emphasized that developments require adequate facilities, access to public transport, and open spaces. Dr. Hu identified the proximity to electronic gaming machine venues as a critical concern for this neighborhood, stating, "we cannot just build houses; we also need to provide enough infrastructure and social facilities to make that neighbourhood more livable." He added that insufficient open space or social infrastructure might compel residents to use gambling venues as social gathering places. The development site is located within four kilometers of two train stations, though Dr. Hu questioned the efficiency of their bus connections.
Planning Authority and Council Stance
The Planning Minister assumed responsibility for the development in June 2025, a measure Development Victoria stated was aimed at streamlining housing approvals. This decision has been a source of concern for Brimbank Council, which seeks to regain control over the area's planning. Mayor Virginia Tachos asserted that the council is better positioned to ensure developments meet local community needs and expectations. She advocated for increased community consultation before any further decisions regarding the site are finalized.
Mayor Tachos stated that "there are significant gaps in the Cairnlea Estate Master Plan," which are a major concern for both the community and the council. The development, planned in stages, has already undergone revisions, including a reduction in the number of homes from over 800, following community feedback. The planning strategy is in the process of being finalized to comply with council regulations, and Development Victoria is required to make financial contributions for local infrastructure. A campaign highlighting various concerns related to the development has been ongoing for several years, with Paul Hopper, founder of the West Party, reportedly becoming involved and funding advertising. Blore has also joined the West Party.