Road projects need new review process, local says

A CLIFTON Springs resident is not backing down from the state government as he attempts to improve the safety of two road infrastructure projects in Drysdale.

Neil McGuinness, a retired mechanical engineer with 40 years experience, wants Premier Daniel Andrews to adopt an “Evidence Based Approval Process” for new road infrastructure.

“I consider that the adoption of an ‘Evidence Based Approval Process’ as is routinely used in industry, is imperative to ensure projects meet objectives, are successful, and will meet community expectations,” Mr McGuiness said.

“My recommendations and comments are intended to be constructive, and enable improvements to the project approval process and thereby improve the safety and efficiency of Victoria’s road system.

“I make these suggestions having observed, what I consider to be, a flawed approved process involving two current traffic projects for Drysdale.” Mr McGuiness said the Drysdale road projects of concern to him were:

1. A signalised treatment for the western intersection for the Drysdale Bypass.

2. A new road that is to be constructed across the Bellarine Rail Trail to a new set of traffic lights on the Portarlington Road, instead of upgrading the dangerous uncontrolled Hermsley intersection.

“Unfortunately, evidence shows that the Drysdale western intersection is an incorrect outcome with respect to safety and traffic efficiency, as well as to environmental issues and cost,” he said.

“I recommend that an independent authority such as the TAC conduct an independent enquiry to that effect, using the two Drysdale projects as examples for comparison.”

Mr McGuniess has contacted the Premier and Minister for Roads and Road Safety Luke Donnellan about his concerns and suggestions.