The Nationals Member for Eastern Victoria Region, Melina Bath has called on the Andrews Labor Government to deliver planning and construction finance for the Leongatha Heavy Vehicle Alternate Route Stage 2 in State Parliament.
Ms Bath labelled the intersection that interconnects Roughead street, McCartin street, the South Gippsland Highway, and the Great Southern Rail Trail a ‘dangerous debacle’.
“Known locally as Kamikaze corner, this dangerous intersection is a public safety hazard that the Andrews Labor Government continues to ignore,” said Ms Bath.
“Leongatha locals know that the Heavy Vehicle Alternate Route Stage 1 has multiple problems for drivers, pedestrians, and rail trail users.
“The Great Southern Rail Trail is interrupted at Roughead street, and users are compelled to detour many hundreds of metres around the intersection or run the gauntlet at the busy intersection.
“You only have to watch the passage of vehicles for a short time before you see near collisions – and locals are concerned that someone will be seriously hurt – it is an accident waiting to happen.”
Ms Bath said the need for planning and funding for Leongatha Alternate Route Stage 2 to fix the debacle of an intersection must be immediately granted.
“My Nationals colleague, Danny O’Brien recently presented a petition in parliament on behalf of concerned residents, there is considerable consternation about this intersection, Ms Bath said.
“I am regularly contacted by locals sharing their frustrations – it’s highly dangerous and very confusing for drivers, pedestrians, and cyclists alike.
“While locals avoid the corner as much as possible, our beautiful region is a tourist destination, and it would be tragic for an accident to occur by unsuspecting visitors.
“There will be differing opinions on the best and safest route, that is why a comprehensive plan is needed that includes public consultation.
“The multiple safety issues at this intersection are not new, the Leongatha bypass plans were drawn up 20 years ago.
“The Andrews Government must immediately commit to Stage 2 to bypass heavy vehicles and improve road safety for Leongatha residents.”
