Monday, 28th September 2020
As more Queenslanders hit the road for holidays, LNP Leader Deb
Frecklington has announced another major road infrastructure and safety plan.
Ms Frecklington said in
addition to the visionary long-term duplication upgrade of the Bruce Highway,
the LNP will also provide a $50 million boost to build new and upgrade driver
reviver rest stops to support driver safety and prevent fatigue.
“Queensland is losing the war on reducing the road toll,” Ms Frecklington said.
“We can’t just talk about road safety, we have to build the infrastructure for
motorists to use.
“Building a better Bruce Highway is not only a visionary project to future proof regional economies, but it will encourage more drive tourism which will be even more vital while international borders are closed.
“It could be the difference between businesses keeping their doors open.”
The
LNP’s investment comes on the back of a shocking increasing in the road toll
this year, with a spike of almost 20% compared to last year and well above the
five-year average.
126 fatalities have been recorded on the Bruce Highway between 2014-2018.
Fatigue is one of the leading causes of road crashes.
The LNP’s plan will not only save lives and improve safety, but also support over 150 construction jobs across regional Queensland.
Ms Frecklington said the program would be established in partnership with local Councils along the Bruce Highway to determine the best locations.
“As an initial priority, the LNP will conduct a state-wide audit of existing driver reviver rest stops to determine the best location for additional sites, while increasing maintenance at existing stops,” Ms Frecklington said.
“This latest LNP road safety boost will not only support local motorists and road users but also encourage the drive tourism market as well.”
LNP Shadow Transport Minister Steve Minnikin said the quality of our road infrastructure, including roadside rest areas is important to provide a safe and enjoyable driving experience.
“There are only two current stops between Mackay and Rockhampton, and 12
between Cairns and Gympie,” Mr Minnikin said.
“Increased
signage would also be part of the LNP’s plan.”
Queensland Trucking Association CEO Gary Mahon supports the LNP’s plan and said
the QTA is always pleased to work on increasing the number of rest areas and
providing good basic standards for truck drivers as they go about the vital
service they undertake for all our Queensland communities.
“We all want to get home safe from work and it is critical that the
long-distance truck drivers have a decent opportunity to rest and manage their
fatigue,” Mr Mahon said.
Caravanning Queensland Trade CEO Jason Plant said he supports any initiative designed to improve road safety, for all road users.
“Rest
stops provide road users with the ability to manage their fatigue when
travelling long distances throughout Queensland,” Mr Plant said.
“We encourage all road users to pre-plan their rest stops and fatigue
management.”
Map of current stops – https://www.qld.gov.au/transport/safety/holiday-travel/stops/map
