By Jed Lanyon
Eildon MP Cindy McLeish has taken aim at the Minister for Roads for the “lack of attention” given to Donna Buang Road, which was damaged by landslips in severe storms in May.
Speaking in parliament last month Ms McLeish asked the Minister for Roads to take immediate action to repair the road near the Rain Forest Gallery.
“Those who have travelled to Mt Donna Buang recently would know the road is now one lane only and managed by construction traffic lights, as the opposite side has literally been swept away and dragged down the embankment. It is quite shocking to see,” Ms McLeish said.
Following the landslips, immediate geotechnical investigations were undertaken, which deemed the road safe for re-opening, according to the Department of Transport (DoT).
The impacted traffic lane has been closed off using water-filled barriers and the speed limit reduced to 40 km/hr. DoT said delays to traffic are currently minimal, less than five minutes. Temporary traffic lights are in place to manage the contra flow of traffic and Variable Message Boards are being used to advise heavy vehicles to avoid the area.
A DoT spokesperson told Star Mail, “We’re undertaking detailed design work ahead of repairs to Donna Buang Road and other sites impacted by landslips in the Yarra Ranges.
“We thank the community for their patience as we continue to safely plan works to remedy the landslip, particularly as we begin to see more motorists on our roads.”
Works are expected to take place next year to restore the road, while it is currently being inspected twice weekly and after heavy rainfall.
“The limited access to the road is also a major concern as we approach bushfire season. If the road worsens, emergency vehicles will be unable to access the mountain. This is simply not good enough,” Ms McLeish said. “With restrictions easing, tourists will again be heading this way.”
DoT assured that while there is one lane still in operation, access for emergency vehicles would be maintained and managed by the temporary traffic lights.
DoT is a member of the Yarra Ranges Fire Prevention Committee and will be liaising with the Country Fire Authority, Parks Victoria and the Department of Environment, Land, Water and Planning to discuss the impact the lane closure will have on larger vehicle access needs in the event of a bushfire.
