Postal danger zone

Letterbox plan sparks residents’ fears

COLLINSVALE residents fear lives will be at risk if plans by Australia Post to set up nests of letterboxes on dangerous roads go ahead.

The recent closure of the Collinsvale General Store, where mail for about 240 homes was previously delivered, has sparked a standoff between Australia Post and Collinsvale residents.

Earlier this week, Australia Post informed residents of a proposed new delivery service that offers postage to some homes, while other mail would be delivered to up to 10 letterbox sites.

A number of Collinsvale residents believe Australia Post should reconsider its proposal, saying the letterbox nests earmarked for installation on October 1 would pose a serious safety risk on a number of hazardous Collinsvale roads.

“We’re really concerned that there will be a serious in- jury to someone when collecting mail at these proposed clusters of letterboxes,” resident Danielle Woodbridge said.

“During winter months, these roads become icy, which could result in unimaginable accidents if residents are to be dodging traffic to collect their mail.”

But in a letter issued to residents this week, Australia Post said a Collinsvale road risk assessment determined that delivery to letterbox nest sites would be safer than postage to residential properties.

“While we know that all residents would love to have deliveries to their property, the condition of some of the local roads would make mail delivery unsafe,” an Australia Post spokesperson said.

“Of course, if the condition of the roads was to improve and safety was no longer an issue, then we would happily review mail delivery arrangements at that time.”

Glenorchy City Council Mayor Kristie Johnston said the council takes the safety of the municipality’s roads very seriously.

“While it is not our role to approve locations of mailboxes, we have advised Australia Post letterbox nest sites should be located in safe areas clear of the road, while providing sufficient sight distances for vehicles stopping,” she said.

“In terms of ongoing road safety, we’re always open to community consultation about that.”