Princes Highway - State Coronial Inquest Action

State and Federal Roads Ministers Must Act on NSW Coroner’s Findings

15th June 2008

The major recommendations of a State Coronial Inquest into the Princes Highway must be implemented immediately by the State and Federal Labor Governments according to the State Member for Bega Andrew Constance.

Andrew Constance Member for Bega

“The coronial inquest into the Princes Highway must be a catalyst for change in the way in which state and federal governments manage the planning, funding and upgrading of this most dangerous and unforgiving highway,” Mr Constance said.

“Too many have lost their lives or been injured and it is incumbent upon the Roads Ministers at state and federal levels to act and save lives into the future.

“Families directly affected by the loss of loved ones and communities along the route are demanding a better way forward,” he said.

On page 272 (10.2.13) of the report the State Coroner has found sections of the Princes Highway to not be of acceptable standard and that in parts lanes are narrow, impermissibly so by modern standards, there is little or no paved road shoulder, there are obstacles in the clear zone, there is unprotected drops and the road is winding. He further states:

‘The consequences of simple driver error in such an environment may be catastrophic.’ - NSW Deputy Coroner Carl Milovanovich

“A recommendation by the NSW coroner for a grant of funding for a realignment from Victoria Creek to Dignams Creek is very serious and one which must be acted upon immediately by the NSW and Federal Roads Ministers,” Mr Constance said.

“This is not just a recommendation for upgrades at the two locations, but a major road realignment from one to the other, which would include the need for major work south of the Bermagui turnoff and at Couria Creek,” he said.

“It is 15.1 kilometres of major works required, and in part is work that the RTA have planned for well over 25 years and have been denied funding for by Treasury,” Mr Constance said

“There is planning funds set aside in this years State budget for Dignams and Victoria Creek, however tens of millions of dollars are needed to undertake the work between the two locations.

“I will be writing to the Federal and State Governments demanding urgent action and seeking a public assurance from the respective Ministers that work is to commence as soon as possible.

“I will also be arranging a delegation to Canberra and Sydney to meet with the Ministers to ensure action on the State Coroners report,” he said.