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Side Road Activated Speed technology for Bass Highway and Leongatha South-Outrrim Road intersection not the solution

SRAS technology to be used at the intersection of Bass Highway and Leongatha South-Outtrim Road due to recent accidents, but realignment needed for improved safety.

By news@gippsland - 4th April 2023 - Back to News

The intersection of Bass Highway and Leongatha South-Outrrim Road has been identified for the use of Side Road Activated Speed (SRAS) technology following a spate of accidents. The Nationals Member for Gippsland South, Danny O'Brien said that while he was thankful for any efforts to improve road safety and save lives, the intersection still requires a realignment to improve visibility and right-hand turning lanes.

Danny O'Brien with local farmer Callum Moscript at the intersection of Bass Highway and Leongatha South-Outtrim Rd which has been identified for Side Road Activated Speed (SRAS) technology

Concerns about the intersection

Mr O'Brien said, "I was contacted by local farmer Callum Moscript who highlighted a number of valid issues with the current intersection. The intersection is a T-type intersection of both Leongatha South-Outtrim Road and the Bass Highway, and across the road is a local road, Rougheads Road."

"For traffic coming onto the Bass Highway it is difficult to see looking towards Leongatha if you are coming out of the Outtrim road. The other issue is traffic turning right into the Outtrim Road does not have a right-turning lane. There is a CFA shed and the old school on either side of the road, and there is an issue there with a small incline that makes it difficult for cars coming down the road to see." Mr O'Brien said.

Lobby for intersection realignment

Mr O'Brien said after he raised the matter in State Parliament and sought funding for a realignment, he was advised that this intersection has now been identified for the SRAS technology. "The installation of side-road activated speed signs is a start, but the realignment of the intersection remains important and I'll keep fighting for a safer outcome."

"The Andrews Labor Government is gaining a reputation for lowering speeds instead of fixing roads, especially when it comes to regional roads. This intersection needs a realignment and installation of right-hand turning lanes and that's what I will continue to push for," he said.

The Department of Transport and Planning (DTP) has advised electronic speed signs and vehicle detection works for this intersection are scheduled to commence by May 2023.

Pictures from Danny O'Brien MP website.

Source: http://gippsland.com/

Published by: news@gippsland.com