Wonthaggi intersection on hold

COUNCILLOR Les Larke was the sole councillor to throw a lifeline to a dangerous Wonthaggi intersection on Wednesday.
Bass Coast Shire Council considered bumping the intersection connecting Murray Street, Billson Street and Biggs Drive up its risk assessment priority list, but ultimately decided it would be an irresponsible move.
This particular intersection is somewhere between 10th and 15th on the priority list.
Councillors refused to support the motion to bring the intersection forward, as it would jeopardise safety on roads that need immediate attention.
However, Cr Larke fought for the improvement works, standing up for the safety of those frequenting the Wonthaggi Medical Group, the Wonthaggi Senior Citizen’s Club, and the subsidised housing.
“It is dangerous with an increased volume of traffic. It is terrifying for those with mobility issues who need to access the essential Murray Street facilities,” he said.
“I question why this intersection is not ranked higher.”
Cr Bruce Kent argued council should not act on one councillor’s opinion.
“I find it fraught with danger when a councillor decides his opinion is greater than the abilities of the council staff, who conduct the risk assessment,” he said.
“I haven’t heard any argument at all that this risk assessment is flawed. We have experienced staff here, and we have this assessment. If an argument was put forward that the risk assessment is flawed, then I would look at that argument, but it hasn’t been. All we have is an opinion that this location should be put on top of this list above the other 10 to 15 roads.”
Cr Julian Brown said it would be best to look at the intersection in conjunction with the Wonthaggi Activity Centre Plan, as there would be no time to redesign the intersection to coincide with current Public Transport Victoria (PTV) works.
PTV began works to improve the bus shelter at the start of the month.
Deputy mayor Cr Brett Tessari backed Cr Brown.
“I agree we need to look at this when we do the Wonthaggi Activity Centre Plan. There are plenty of roads and streets in Bass Coast that are difficult to cross. If you try to cross the road in Cowes during the holiday season or Grantville, you are taking your life into your own hands,” he said.
“It (Murray Street) is an intersection that needs repairing, but we have a list for a reason.”
Cr Les Larke said health and safety is non negotiable.
“I listen to the community, and the community has said this intersection is high risk. Any prudent council would conduct a study about the safety issues and work with VicRoads to resolve them,” he said.
“To do nothing – even installing simple signage to help pedestrians cross – is negligent.”
The motion was lost, with only Cr Larke voting in favour.

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Posted by Tayla Kershaw on Jul 24 2018. Filed under News. You can follow any responses to this entry through the RSS 2.0. You can leave a response or trackback to this entry