MEMBER for Euroa, Annabelle Cleeland, has tabled a petition in the Victorian Parliament calling for urgent safety upgrades at the intersection of Hamilton Street and High Street in Broadford.
The petition, initiated by the Broadford Residents Action Group, has received an impressive 1160 signatures, reflecting the depth of community concern about the dangerous crossing.
Residents are urging the State Government and Inland Rail to include traffic lights and pedestrian safety measures in the new bridge project, warning that the current design will make an already risky intersection even more hazardous.
Ms Cleeland said she was proud to bring the community’s voice to Parliament.
“Broadford residents have been raising alarm about this intersection for years,” Ms Cleeland said.
“With the new bridge being built higher and steeper, it’s unacceptable that the plans don’t include traffic lights or proper pedestrian safety. These are simple, sensible measures that could save lives.”
The petition highlights that the new bridge will be 1.7 metres higher than the current road deck, with a 54-metre descent leading directly into the High Street intersection – a design that locals fear poses serious risks for motorists and pedestrians alike.
“Locals are frustrated and rightly so. They’re not being listened to by State or Federal authorities,” Ms Cleeland said.
“This is about basic duty of care. The community deserves a say in decisions that affect their safety.”
Ms Cleeland thanked BRAG for their strong and ongoing advocacy.
“This group has worked tirelessly to push for safer roads and better planning in their town,” she said.
“Their persistence shows just how much the Broadford community cares about protecting one another.”
Ms Cleeland has called on the Victorian Government to work with Mitchell Shire Council and the Australian Rail Track Corporation to ensure traffic lights and pedestrian crossings are delivered as a priority before the bridge opens.
“Broadford deserves infrastructure that makes life safer, not harder,” she said.
