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Wednesday 13 May 2026
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Funding boost for primary school HASTINGS Primary School is among 31 Victorian government schools that will share in $294.8m for upgrade and modernisation works. Hastings Primary will receive more than $1.65m through the 2026-27 Victorian Budget for the upgrade works. “Today’s funding announcement is incredibly exciting for Hastings Primary School and our broader community,” said Hastings Primary School principal Simone McDonald. “This investment will support the modernisation of our facilities and help ensure our students continue to learn, grow, and thrive in spaces that reflect the future-focused education they deserve.” The broader schools capital package announced in the state budget also includes $761.8m for new and growing schools across Victoria, $216.7m for high-quality modular classrooms and buildings, $104m to acquire land for future schools in high-growth areas, and $28.8m to improve access for students with disability and additional needs. Sarah Halfpenny
HASTINGS Primary School principal Simone McDonald has welcomed the funding news. Picture: Yanni
Developer apologises as traffic woes escalate Raia Flinos raia@mpnews.com.au THE private developer responsible for roadworks on Nepean Hwy in Mornington has issued a statement apologising for the significant disruptions caused, while Padua College has called for an “immediate review of the current traffic arrangements” after further traffic restrictions were introduced last week,
impacting their 2000 students and 300 staff. In a letter seen by The News, the developer of the factory complex next to Bata Shoes, Neue Space, said they “sincely apologise for the disruption and frustration” experienced by the community and recognised the “real and tangible impact on people’s daily lives”. The works, which involve construction of a new slip lane to service the development, are required under
a planning permit and have been approved by the shire and the Department of Transport. The developer confirmed the lane closure is necessary to ensure the safety of road users and construction workers and that the anticipated 22 June completion date reflects an already condensed schedule. They said it wouldn’t be possible to complete the works in a shorter time frame without compromising safety, quality, or regulatory compliance.
The statement added the affected lane is unable to be opened outside of work hours due to continuous concrete barriers which have been installed. Neue Space did say they are actively working with construction partners and relevant authorities to fast-track elements and improve efficiency where possible. “Should any safe and feasible options emerge to shorten the duration or reduce impacts, we will pursue
them immediately,” the statement read. The apology comes amid growing complaints from the community. As previously reported by The News, the Nepean Hwy lane closure has coincided with several other major roadworks in the area, which has compounded delays and placed pressure on local road networks (Multiple road closures create traffic chaos, The News 28/4/26). Continued Page 8
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