FRUSTRATED south-west councils are taking matters into their own hands and uniting to push the government for $300 million to fix the Princes Highway.
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In announcing its council’s wishlist ahead of the November state election, Corangamite Shire chief executive officer Andrew Mason said a clear strategy was needed on the best way to upgrade the route, plus $300 million to make it a reality.
Despite being a major link to transport goods from the region’s $1.8-billion agriculture sector, Mr Mason said the highway between Colac and the South Australian border was sub-standard.
“We’re getting frustrated, the duplication to Colac is a great thing… but it can’t just stop at Colac, there is a really important demand and need for improvements to the Princes Highway,” he said.
“You only have to travel on that road at any number of locations and you can see safety issues, you can see passing issues. We’re very keen to see that done and, if necessary, the councils will look at doing the strategy themselves to give direction.
“This is a key issue for the councils in south-west Victoria and Great South Coast – it’s a key priority.”
Mr Mason said the push for a strategy would be made by all councils in the region.
“That strategy will provide clarity around what improvements and upgrades are required for the Princes Highway, whether it be dual lane, or 2+1 or passing lanes,” he said.
“Then we think there’s around $300 million required to start implementing that strategy.
“Potentially the councils will come together to do that strategy, but obviously its not our road so the works would need to be done by the state government.”
Corangamite Shire, along with other councils, are also continuing their push for the highway to be recognised by the federal government as a road of national significance, which would help it attract funds from Canberra.
Corangamite mayor Jo Beard said feedback from industry was showing roads were not keeping pace. “We don’t take our foot off the pedal when it comes to roads advocacy.”
The Great South Coast region produces a third of the state’s dairy, beef and lamb.
It can’t just stop at Colac, there is a really important demand and need for improvements to the Princes Highway.
- Corangamite Shire CEO Andrew Mason
