VICROADS have briefed McKoy Street businesses on planned changes at key spots on the Hume Freeway in Wodonga.
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Representatives from the state’s roads authority have followed through on an order from Victorian transport minister Luke Donnellan to meet with businesses concerned about the potential death trap being created at the intersection of the freeway at McKoy Street in conjunction with a new service station.
But VicRoads is refusing to buckle to community and political pressure to halt the works.
North-East Fork Lift Services director Chris Lindhe said as part of the 11th hour consultations being carried out by VicRoads he had been shown future options for exits and entrances to the freeway between McKoy Street and further east to Wodonga.
They include another potential headache for VicRoads, the closure of Melbourne Road.
Upgrading the Melrose Drive overpass to a full-diamond interchange is still in play.
“It was all quite informative,” Mr Lindhe said.
“We acknowledge there are no costings done or approval given for any of the plans
“It wasn’t just for McKoy Street.
“But the fact they are now communicating and made the effort to come and see us is a good sign.”
Belvoir Village Motel freehold owner Lloyd Deane said any plans to shut Melbourne Road would be fought vigorously.
“They will have World War III on their hands if they push ahead with that,” he said.
“All the businesses on Melbourne Road shouldn’t pay any penalty because the roads authority has had a change of heart.
“The fact Wodonga Council is in our corner on this is a great sign.”
The council is supportive of a connection of McKoy Street to Melbourne Road.
VicRoads said a safety audit proved the McKoy Street intersection met the required safety standards.
“There are currently no plans to change the existing speed limits,” regional director Nicki Kyriakou said.
“We've been meeting with McKoy Street businesses to understand their concerns, and to explain how the changed intersection will operate and its safety benefits.”
Federal infrastructure minister Michael McCormack’s office is aware of the intersection concerns raised.
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