Turning lanes possible but not promised

Safety improvements along Maroondah Highway in Woodfield may be on the cards.

Following calls from State Liberal Member for Eildon, Cindy McLeish, design options are now being considered to improve safety on the Maroondah Highway at turnoffs into Ancona Road, Coles Road, Woolshed Road and Pollock Avenue in Woodfield.

Ms McLeish, in February, called for the Minister for Roads to ensure the addition of left-turning lanes off Maroondah Highway at these points was treated as a matter of priority.

Ms McLeish said, “The minister has now advised that Regional Roads Victoria have inspected the locations and are exploring design options to improve safety, which may include slip lanes and turning lanes.

“I first requested left-turning lanes be added along this section of the Maroondah Highway in 2017. It’s been a long time coming but I am pleased that the concerns of locals and those who travel along the highway have finally been heard.”

It is crucial for the State Government to support the works to increase traffic flow and enhance driver’s safety. The lack of turning lanes causes traffic to slow and risks drivers being rear ended by those travelling behind if they stop due to another driver turning.

Ms McLeish continues, “Having spoken to locals and residents who live on these roads, I know how important and necessary it is to the community to have these improvements made.

“The city centric Labor Government need to put this project into action and quickly establish ways to incorporate left-turning lanes.

“Having inspected the site many times first hand, I know there certainly is enough room on the highway to add turning lanes. It is a shovel-ready project that is low in cost and easily achievable. There is no reason for Regional Roads Victoria and the State Government not to proceed,” Ms McLeish concludes.