Drivers on Mona Vale Road face increased safety hazards from debris and soil blowing onto the road due to the deferral of a $340-million upgrade project.
Local motorists are expressing growing concern as the planned upgrade of Mona Vale Road, valued at $340 million, has been postponed, leading to dangerous conditions on a busy section of the road.
Originally intended to expand and improve safety along the 3.4km stretch from McCarrs Creek Rd in Terrey Hills to Powder Works Rd in Ingleside, the project’s delay has compromised existing road conditions. Soil, sand, and construction debris have been reported to blow onto the road surface, creating slippery and hazardous driving conditions.
Last year, NSW officials confirmed that the Mona Vale Rd (West) upgrade would be deferred by at least two years, a decision made despite previous commitments and budget allocations. This deferral has occurred even as adjacent projects near completion, causing frustration among local residents and council members.
During a recent Northern Beaches Council meeting, Cr Vincent De Luca highlighted concerns brought to his attention by an anonymous construction insider. The source reported that the unsettled debris from the halted construction works is contributing to an already notorious accident black spot.
This stretch of road is particularly critical as it sees over 37,000 vehicles daily, and road crash data indicates a troubling history of accidents and fatalities in the area.
Mr De Luca has urged that the state government resume the upgrade promptly to mitigate further risks to driver safety.
In response to the safety concerns, Transport for NSW (TfNSW) acknowledged the delay, attributing it partly to unseasonal wet weather, which is affecting construction schedules. TfNSW has assured that measures are being taken to stabilise the area, including erosion and sedimentation controls and planting native vegetation to secure the embankments. Furthermore, traffic management changes have been implemented to safeguard motorists during ongoing works, including a reduced speed limit and partial road closures.
The community continues to watch closely, hoping for a swift resumption of the roadworks to ensure the safety and efficiency of one of the area’s critical commuter routes.
Published 27-Aug-2024
