The intersection of Batlow Road and Snowy Mountain Highway has long been considered dangerous by Tumut locals. Photo: NSW Roads and Maritime Services.
When the people of Tumut have a minister’s ear it means big things for the town.
Hot on the heels of the announcement on Friday, 9 October, that a new roundabout is to be constructed at the intersection of Gocup Road and Snowy Mountains Highway comes the news that another intersection in the South West Slopes town is in the spotlight.
The junction of Snowy Mountains Highway and Batlow Road is of concern to local motorists due to heavy vehicles heading up and down the mountain.
The busy intersection west of Tumut is used by residents, commuters and visitors as it links to the Hume Highway, national parks and the Snowy Mountains to the south, and is a key freight route for timber and agricultural distribution.
Acting NSW Deputy Premier and Minister for Regional Transport and Roads Paul Toole, who visited Tumut last week, said the speed zone review follows a recent invitation for public comment on the busy intersection.
Acting NSW Deputy Premier and Minister for Regional Transport and Roads Paul Toole.
Speed limits along the length of Batlow Road and its intersection with Snowy Mountains Highway will be reviewed in response to community feedback.
“The community has made it loud and clear that reviewing speed limits on Batlow Road and Snowy Mountains Highway is a priority,” said Mr Toole.
“Batlow Road is used by heavy trucks moving local produce and timber to other parts of the state and beyond so we understand safety is of critical importance to the local community.
“Ultimately, we want to reduce the frequency and severity of crashes around this key junction.”
Along with the full length of Batlow Road, speed limits on sections of the Snowy Mountains Highway – around the Batlow Road intersection – will also be reviewed.
Mr Toole said the speed zone reviews will assess a number of factors, including crash history, traffic volume, property accesses and pedestrian activity.
“This is all part of the work we have committed to doing to improve safety at this intersection and on the road network in the Snowy Valleys area,” said Mr Toole.
“We will advise the community of any changes to speed zones as a result of these reviews.”
The full consultation report is expected to be released shortly.
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