DURING the most recent sitting week of Parliament, The Nationals’ Member for Euroa, Annabelle Cleeland raised the Broadford community’s concerns about Inland Rail’s proposed changes to the Hamilton Street Bridge.
Ms Cleeland met with the Minister for Roads and Road Safety to advocate for local residents and community groups, particularly highlighting safety concerns related to the bridge’s increased height.
“The Broadford community has been clear—they are deeply concerned about Inland Rail’s proposed changes to the Hamilton Street Bridge and the serious safety risks they pose,” she said.
“The Hamilton and High Street intersection is the busiest in Broadford, and raising the bridge’s height will only make it more dangerous.
“The steep incline leading to this intersection is already a safety hazard, and without urgent intervention, we risk tragic consequences.”
Despite ongoing discussions with Inland Rail, ARTC, the Federal Government, and Mitchell Shire Council, Ms Cleeland said there has been little action to address the community’s concerns.
“The Broadford Structure Plan, adopted in 2022, clearly recommends safety improvements at this intersection, including a roundabout or other traffic control measures,” she said.
“Yet, these crucial recommendations have been ignored in the planning process.
“Previously, I called for an injunction on ARTC’s proposed changes until our community’s concerns were properly addressed.
“I have also sought direct meetings with ARTC, but they have not been forthcoming.
“Following my meeting with the Minister, I am pushing for the Department of Transport’s safety report on ARTC to be made public—so local residents can finally see the full picture.”
