A major push to unlock housing growth in East Bairnsdale is being advanced as a priority ahead of the November State Election, with Council seeking funding to deliver critical drainage infrastructure in Lucknow.

The proposal centres on long-planned residential growth in the Lanes Road precinct, where up to 600 new homes are expected to be delivered. Council is calling on all parties and candidates contesting the election to commit $4 million towards drainage works needed to address flooding concerns and make the land development-ready.

Mayor Cr Jodie Ashworth said the investment would directly support new housing supply while improving long-term resilience in a key growth area.

“Lucknow is a logical and important growth area for East Gippsland, but without the right infrastructure in place, that growth cannot proceed safely or sustainably,” Cr Ashworth said.

“This project is about making sure the land is ready so we can deliver new homes, protect existing properties and plan properly for the future.”

The proposed works include construction of a modern, engineered drainage network, new stormwater infrastructure such as drainage basins and pipes, and water-sensitive urban design measures to manage runoff and reduce flooding impacts.

Council says the upgrades would not only unlock housing supply but also improve environmental outcomes, with better-managed stormwater flows expected to deliver downstream benefits for the Gippsland Lakes.

The Lanes Road precinct has been identified for long-term residential development as part of State Government housing targets of 11,000 new homes in East Gippsland by 2051. The area sits alongside established housing, community and sporting facilities, as well as major local employers including Patties Foods.

Council says technical assessments and planning work are already well advanced, making the project ready for delivery once funding is secured.

The project forms part of Council’s broader advocacy program ahead of the State Election, which is focused on enabling infrastructure, housing supply and long-term regional growth. Council is urging all candidates and parties to support practical investment that removes barriers to new housing and supports sustainable growth in East Bairnsdale.

Council's advocacy package includes priority investments in roads, health, housing, flood and drainage infrastructure, sporting facilities, emergency services, forestry transition and public land management, along with reform of the Emergency Services and Volunteers Fund levy.

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