The Allan Government is failing to address urgent upgrades to Phillip Island Road in San Remo, despite years of mounting safety concerns and community advocacy.
The Nationals’ Melina Bath told state parliament that the intersection is one of the most dangerous in Victoria.
“Exiting San Remo onto Phillip Island Road is hazardous due to poor visibility and presents safety issues for drivers, pedestrians and cyclists.
“Congestion and poor traffic flow issues continue to worsen, leading to delays and growing frustration for local families and visitors.
“The Allan Government’s ongoing neglect is impacting community safety and liveability while detracting from the visitor experience in one of Victoria’s most popular tourist destinations.”
Ms Bath said Bass Coast Shire Council’s San Remo Structure Plan explicitly states, “Phillip Island Road needs to be addressed urgently, and it is the number one regional road priority for the Gippsland region and for Bass Coast.”
“Furthermore, One Gippsland lists the San Remo Road Infrastructure Improvements as a regional priority, yet the project continues to be overlooked by both the state and federal Labor governments.
“The project is shovel ready and is needed to support a projected increase of 4,300 additional visitors per day by 2035.
“Labor conducted community engagement on this road 10 years ago – in doing nothing for the past decade it’s turning a blind eye to road safety.
“Regional Victoria is home to 25 per cent of the state’s population, yet it only received 12 per cent of state funded infrastructure investment last year.
“It is unacceptable that our roads are unsafe and in an appalling state, while billions continue to be wasted in cost over runs in the city.
“The Allan Government must stop delaying and deliver this vital project before more lives are put at risk.”
