Liam McNally
Melton council may increase its number of road safety audits, following a report into its current management of the road network within the municipality.
The report was conducted following a motion at a May 29 council meeting.
Councillor Ashleigh Vandenberg said she moved for the report to be conducted following the collision between a truck and school bus on Exford Road on May 16.
“Given the tragic incident on Exford Road, this notice of motion is calling on council to undertake a report on our road networks and to determine if additional measures are required” she said.
“Like many I have been deeply impacted by the incident on Exford Road and I want to ensure we do all we can to identify and mitigate any possible risks on our road.”
The report, presented at a meeting on July 31, found that council is fulfilling its obligations as required under the Road Management Act 2004 through the development and implementation of a “robust” road management plan.
The report said the plan prioritises maintenance, conducts road safety audits, promotes education programs, and engages in long-term planning to enhance road safety and meet the needs of the community.
However, the report said there is room for council to increase the number of road safety audits undertaken per year as an additional measure.
Council historically conducts two road corridor audits per year and typically another two to four for other specific issues.
To decide whether the Road Safety Audit Program will be expanded, council officers will provide additional information to councillors to consider as part of the 2024-2025 budget.
Cr Sophie Ramsay welcomed the report, from the perspective of a councillor who has been on road safety committees “for the last umpteen years”.
“We need at all times to make sure we’re on top of all the OH&S and risk,” she said.
Star Weekly is not suggesting road conditions cause the May 16 bus and truck collision.
