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Great Alpine Road working group formed

By Craig Ingram - 3rd September 2004 - Back to News

The Member for Gippsland East, Craig Ingram, has congratulated the Omeo and district communities for the positive attitude and large turnout at the meeting organised by the proprietor of the Omeo bus lines, Trevor Smith, on the condition of the Great Alpine Road.

Mr Ingram said the meeting clearly acknowledged the importance of improved road access to the region to the tourism industry, whilst recognising the necessity of ensuring continued heavy vehicle access to the other key economic industries of the area in the agriculture, mining and the timber industries.

"The meeting also clearly expressed its concerns at the current standard of a number of sections of the great alpine road which require urgent attention.

"Solutions and suggestions were put forward from the local community and a working group has been established to pursue the issue.

"Issues that I have been requested to take forward are:

· The closure of gravel pits by the DSE impacting on the cost of road maintenance;

· The restrictions on the removal of road side vegetation to ensure clear visibility on blind corners;

· Increased funding of roads in the area from the return of a % of timber royalties dedicated to road improvements and maintenance; and

· Increased funding of roads by ensuring that a greater percentage of fuel excise is returned to road construction and maintenance.

Source: http://gippsland.com/

Published by: news@gippsland.com

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