Tag: vicroads

Media Release: Council motions supported at MAV State Meeting

Posted on by alex

Six out of the eight motions tabled by Maroondah City Council were carried at the 26 May Municipal Association of Victoria (MAV) State Council meeting.

The successful motions related to improving information technology for customer service, general valuations, unfunded superannuation liability, road reserves owned by VicRoads, Tax deductibility for election expenses and building and planning fees.

Councillor Alex Makin, Council’s representative on the MAV, said the State Council Meeting provided an opportunity for each member council in Victoria to submit motions which have significance on a state level for all Victorian municipalities.

“The motions presented are viewed as being of significance across the Victorian Local Government sector, including the Maroondah community,” Cr Makin said.

“Council has a proven record of leading the way in highlighting issues faced by the Victorian Local Government sector. This is reflected by the favourable response to previous motions submitted by Maroondah and passed, often with unanimous support, at the MAV State Council Meeting,” Cr Makin said.

“At its meeting of Monday 18 April, Council approved eight motions to be submitted to the MAV State Council meeting which was held on Thursday 26 May,” Cr Makin said.

“The motions were developed by Council following interaction with the community in the form of various forums, consultation and strategies,” Cr Makin said.

Of the eight motions presented by Council, six were carried.

The motions carried included:

  • That the MAV State Council calls of the State Government to remove the requirement for Local Government to have superannuation cash backed, given the inconsistency between the three tiers of government and given that both state and federal governments carry these amounts on their balance sheets as unfunded liabilities.
  • That the Municipal Association Of Victoria State Council calls on the State government to extend the frequency of general valuations from two to three years.
  • That the MAV State Council calls on the State Government to abolish the prescribed Statutory Annual Increments for both planning and building fees and enable Councils to set their own fees.
  • That the MAV State Council calls on VicRoads to review current funding allocated for the maintenance of arterial roads and associated infrastructure, roadsides and central medians, and if necessary advocate for increased levels of funding.
  • That the MAV convene a working party comprising of Councillors and Information Technology Officers to explore the technological opportunities to provide a one stop shop customer service approach for Local Government communities.
  • That the MAV State Council writes to the Australian Tax Office seeking an urgent review of the current ceiling of $1000 for election expenses that can be claimed by candidates for Council elections.

– ENDS –

VicRoads Regional Forum

Posted on by alex

VicRoads is a designed statutory authority, which as part of its response manages maintenance and construction. While VicRoads is ultimately responsible to the State Government, it does need to work closely with local government, as many of its decisions can have repercussions for Councils.

This afternoon I attended a regional forum hosted by VicRoads for the Mayors and CEOs of Council’s within the eastern region, to discuss road and transport issues across the eastern municipalities.

The discussion addressed the strategic direction of VicRoads and the increasingly integrated approach that is being utilised for all modes of transport. It is encouraging to see both VicRoads and the Department of Transport recognising the need for integration across roads, public transport, walking and cycling.

Ringwood Chamber of Commerce – 2009 End of Year Function

Posted on by alex

The Ringwood Chamber of Commerce aims to represent the business community within Ringwood and organises regular meetings for its members.

Tonight’s occasion was the final chamber meeting for 2009 and included discussion around the former Ringwood Market site, as well as an update on works for Ringwood Station, which are expected to begin from the middle of the year.

These developments, along with progress within the Eastland site should mark an exciting year as Ringwood begins its transformation into a vibrant urban centre.

In addition, VicRoads is undertaking consultation over Maroondah Highway, with consideration being given for the removal of clearways between Ringwood Street and Warrandyte Road. This would enable additional car parking to benefit shops along the Highway, as well as provide bicycle lanes and better access for buses.

Traders within the inner city are actively campaigning against clearways, given the detriment it has on shopping strips. The removal of clearways along Maroondah Highway and the encouragement of sustainable forms of transport will assist in revitalising the shops along Maroondah Highway.

In addition, this will also provide accessibility improvements for people with disabilities through making it easier to access Ringwood Station and its commercial district.

The VicRoads consultation concludes on the 1st of February, Maroondah Council will be supporting efforts that assist in the revitalisation of this part of Ringwood.

Media Release: Road Management Plan adopted

Posted on by alex

Maroondah’s amended Road Management Plan (RMP) was adopted at the Council meeting of Monday 20 July.

The plan outlines a maintenance service standard and integrated management system for the inspection, maintenance and repair of Council’s roads and road-related infrastructure assets.

Councillor Alex Makin said the main aim of the review underpinning the RMP’s amendment was to assess the levels of service provided, taking into account what was considered reasonable, affordable and achievable.

“The Road Management Plan is an important document outlining Council’s intended levels of service for maintenance of the municipality’s roads and road-related assets,” Cr Makin said.

“The amendments recommended in Council’s review of the Road Management Plan will result in a clearer definition of Council’s responsibilities in relation to road maintenance, the inclusion of an updated map of the municipality reflecting the new three-ward structure, and other minor updates,” Cr Makin said.

The Road Management Plan was on public exhibition in June and July. No submissions were received.

– ENDS –

Funding annoucement for the Ringwood Lake to Creek Project

Posted on by alex

This afternoon the State Government announced $750,000 funding for the Ringwood Lake to Creek Trail, which will link bicycle and shared use paths from the Mullum Mullum Creek through to the Ringwood Lake.

The project which will be delivered in partnership with Maroondah City Council will improve the pedestrian and cycling networks along Larissa Avenue. The existing powerlines will be replaced with underground power, improving the amenity and aesthetics of the street.

In addition water urban sensitive design will be utilised to improve the quality of water entering our stormwater systems and reflect the history of the former Sandy Creek, which flowed through the area.

Unfortunately funding has not yet been announced for the installation of a pedestrian crossing along Maroondah Highway to provide a safe point to cross the Highway between the new path and Ringwood Lake. This crossing is required to complete the Lake to Creek Project and improve access to the recreational amenities within Ringwood Lake. It is hoped that once the Lake to Creek Project is complete that the importance of this crossing will be realised and delivered by VicRoads.

Construction on the Lake to Creek Project, is expected to begin early next year and will include the installation of underground powerlines along Larissa Avenue. This project will improve the amenity of the area and encourage walking and cycling through Ringwood and I welcome the announcement of this funding.

Media Release: Remember the school road rules

Posted on by alex

Maroondah’s schools are back in action from Monday 6 October and Maroondah City Council is reminding drivers to remember the school rules and slow down to the specified speeds in school zones.

Councillor Alex Makin stresses how important it is that all motorists be responsible when approaching school zones, and obey the reduced speed limits.

“Maroondah schools are clearly signed to indicate the appropriate 40km/h speed zone. The reduced speed applies to specified time periods before and after school in some areas whereas others are permanent 40km/h zones,” said Cr Makin.

“The exceptions to these school zones include time based 60km/h speed limits outside schools on 80km/h roads, like Maroondah Highway. Electronic variable signs are used on these roads to indicate the correct speed limits for the particular time of the day,” said Cr Makin.

“The 40km/h school speed zones are in place to reduce the alarming statistics surrounding injuries and deaths of children in and around school areas. Research has indicated reducing speed can dramatically increase the chances of survival for a child involved in an accident,” said Cr Makin.

“Being aware of the location of schools throughout Maroondah and paying attention to the speed zone signs is essential, because even a minor reduction in travelling speed can make the difference in saving a life or reducing injury,” said Cr Makin.

“Although school speed zones have been in effect since 2005, for everyone’s safety motorists are reminded to slow down as we enter a new school term,” said Cr Makin.

In Maroondah each year, on average, there are approximately 310 to 330 casualty accidents (where someone is injured and the Police attend), and out of these approximately 30 involve pedestrians, of which around 7 to 8 are school age children (Source: VicRoads Crash Stats).

For further information about speed limits around schools, contact the VicRoads information hotline on 1300 360 745 or visit www.arrivealive.vic.gov.au

– ENDS –

Media Release: Sharing our roads

Posted on by alex

Cycling is growing in popularity for environmental, health and cost saving reasons, with on and off road cycling lanes and paths increasing throughout metropolitan Melbourne.

Councillor Alex Makin said Council supports and encourages the use of sustainable modes of transport, which include walking, cycling and using public transport.

“The responsibility for the installation of bicycle lanes is shared between VicRoads for bike lanes on main roads, and local councils for bike lanes and routes on local roads,” said Cr Makin.

“There has been a real shift in focus regarding the use of bicycles on our roads, and Council has prepared a number of action plans to ensure the development of a high quality network of on-road bicycle lanes in Maroondah,” said Cr Makin.

“By expanding and integrating on-road bike lanes and paths we make it easier, more enjoyable and safer for everyone to ride a bike,” said Cr Makin. “However, to assist motorists and cyclists in the better use of these on-road bicycle lanes, there are some simple rules that need to be followed.”

“The first thing that needs to be highlighted, is that bicycles are legal vehicles, and are entitled to safe travel on our roads,” said Cr Makin. “Then it is essential that motorists understand that designated on-road bicycle lanes mean just that – they are there for the use of cyclists only.”

Information is available from VicRoads regarding the relevant road rules for both cyclists and motorists, with information on the use of on-road bicycle lanes including:

Motorists are allowed to use bike lanes, but for no more than 50 metres, and only:

  • where necessary to pass a vehicle turning right,
  • to enter or leave a side street,
  • to enter another traffic lane or parking space,
  • where stopping or parking is allowed.

Cyclists are required to use on-road bike lanes where they are provided, unless it is impracticable to do so.

“For the benefit of all road users, it is important that there be mutual respect and consideration for the relevant road rules for motorists and cyclists,” said Cr Makin.

More information on using bicycle lanes is available from VicRoads at www.vicroads.vic.gov.au and Bicycle Victoria at www.bv.com.au or contact Bicycle Information Service on 1300 133 979.

Information and a map detailing bicycle paths and on-road lanes throughout Maroondah is available from Council’s Service Centres or online at Posted in Environment, Maroondah, Media Releases, Sustainable Transport, Urban SustainabilityTagged , , , , , , , , , Leave a Comment on Media Release: Sharing our roads

Maroondah Journal: Business worry on highway

Posted on by alex

The Maroondah Journal has reported on the concern shared by the business community in regard to the lack of a State Government commitment over Ringwood Station and the uncertainty this creates for the future of Ringwood.

Cr Alex Makin said changes to Maroondah Highway could be in doubt because of the State Government’s failure to provide funding to Ringwood rail station.

Among the many proposals thrown into doubt is the calming of Maroondah Highway, which is required to create a vibrant and accessible commercial and retail precinct within the centre of Ringwood.

“It is very unlikely to occur separately”. He said it would be a missed opportunity if VicRoads reneged on its decision.

Improvements to Ringwood should not be left in the lurch simply due to State Government inaction. VicRoads has an opportunity to review the role of Maroondah Highway once EastLink opens and this must not be missed.

Eastern Transport Coalition – standing united over the Ringwood Transit City

Posted on by alex

Tonight’s Eastern Transport Coalition (ETC) meeting included discussions with Gary Liddle (CEO) and Robert Freemantle (Executive Director – Network & Asset Planning) from VicRoads. A number of questions were directed towards VicRoads particularly in regard to management of an integrated transport network.

Specifically I asked about the VicRoads plans for Maroondah Highway given that the State Government failed to provide funding for the redevelopment of Ringwood Station. While it was understood that VicRoads agreed to the need of calming Maroondah Highway in the context of the station redevelopment, it was unclear whether this would be undertaken separately.

Perhaps unsurprisingly VicRoads is unwilling to consider calming of Maroondah Highway without a commitment from the State Government in regard to Ringwood Station. This will severely impact on the ability to revitalise Ringwood and businesses along Maroondah Highway and while VicRoads stated that they will consider interim solutions no details were discussed as to what options would be considered.

While the government had a tremendous opportunity to ensure an integrated transport approach through its creation of the Department of Transport, it has failed to incorporate VicRoads within this structure. VicRoads will still remain a statutory authority with direct reporting lines to the Minister for Roads. This added advantage for VicRoads, with its own separate operating budget, leaves public transport as well as other forms of sustainable transport, such as cycling and walking, at a disadvantage.

Likewise there is still a disconnect between transport and planning. The failure to announce funding for Ringwood Station is indicative of this since it jeopardises the future of the Ringwood transit City and the creation of a vibrant town centre.

The Eastern Transport Coalition recognises the regional significance of the Ringwood Transit City and the importance of creating an accessible and safe station. The strength of the Eastern Transport Coalition, through its representation of seven councils and one million residents, will assist in ensuring funding for the redevelopment of Ringwood Station.

The strength of the Eastern Transport Coalition was recognised when it successfully led a campaign to abolish zone three and this influence will be recognise once again with the group standing united on the need for the redevelopment of Ringwood Station.

The Eastern Transport Coalition is preparing a public transport summit for Friday the 4th of July. This summit will include details on the public transport needs in the outer eastern suburbs.

Eastern Transport Coalition meeting – calling for State and Federal investment in public transport

Posted on by alex

Tonight’s meeting of the Eastern Transport Coalition included a presentation from John Stone, project officer at GAMUT, the Australian Centre for the Governance and Management of Urban Transport.

John spoke about the case for Federal funding of public transport and the need for the Commonwealth to provide such funding in return for operational reforms at a State level. In Victoria such reforms should include the creation of a holistic statutory authority that is responsible for both roads and public transport. This would end the imbalance that exists between VicRoads and the Public Transport Division in the Department of Infrastructure (DOI) by ensuring that all transport projects are assessed equally. Furthermore reforms should include operational measures such as ensuring that buses connect with rail services, so as to provide an integrated transport system that functions as one network.

Requiring such reforms in return for federal funding would ensure that the Commonwealth would receive maximum return for its investment and would prevent waste at a state level. The fact that states such as Western Australia and Queensland have been able to invest in new rail lines after undertaking departmental reform demonstrates that rail extensions can be provided efficiently and economically.

Issues such as congestion and greenhouse emissions, are a national issue and it therefore requires a nationwide response through federal investment in urban public transport infrastructure. Federal involvement would not shift blame from State to Federal Governments but would instead provide accountability and ensure that State Governments would honour their commitments.

The Eastern Transport Coalition will be preparing a discussion paper to advance the campaign for federal involvement in urban public transport.