NO SIMPLE SOLUTIONS FOR PORTARLINGTON RD

HELEN Whiteside’s letter (GA 9/6) was primarily directed to the issue of traffic safety at the western end of the proposed Drysdale Bypass which is a genuine issue, however it is misleading in several aspects.

ROUNDABOUTS are not a proven solution for this location. International experience shows that the solution for any complicated intersection is totally location-specific with over 20 critical considerations. Neither roundabout nor signals are the answer every time.

THE Drysdale Clifton Springs Curlewis Association has not produced a roundabout design that is both suitable and safe for cyclists.

VICROADS has conducted numerous consultation sessions both public and directly with interested parties, including a three-day expert planning panel and most recently a public meeting at the Potato Shed.

DCSCA has provided written submissions and taken more presentation time by far than any other submitter.

Bike Safe agrees that safety is the primary consideration for this precinct.

Although VicRoads has presented credible support for the Grubb Rd signalised intersection design, the planning panel strongly recommended that the intersection and schools/ sporting precinct be reviewed, as peak time access has not been adequately addressed. VicRoads has provided no information on this review.

Also the signalised intersection design should be thoroughly reviewed to minimise the possibilities for serious collisions.

We agree with DCSCA that three major intersections in close proximity entering Drysdale is not desirable and that COGG and VicRoads should jointly review Coryule Rd as an alternative to creating a new intersection on Portarlington Rd at Curlewis.

This would also be particularly useful during what will inevitably be a very disruptive construction period for the bypass.

Garry Laver, Bike Safe president