RAWSON ROAD DESIGN DELAYS

The Peninsula Chamber of Commerce has today expressed its concerns over the continued delays to the Rawson Road/Ocean Beach Road intersection.

“Whilst the Chamber is relieved that the Federal Funding has now been locked in with Central Coast Council, we are concerned that Council has only recently issued a selective tender for the redesign of the intersection with design contracts unlikely to be awarded before October this year”, said President of the Peninsula Chamber of Commerce.

“Frustratingly, it has been nearly 5 years since the initial design process was commenced by Council with the Chamber constantly being reassured that design development and community consultation was proceeding”.

“You can understand the business community’s frustration when we are advised yet again that the intersection is being redesigned with yet another community consultation process to follow”, said Matthew Wales.

“We should not forget that Council has still to go out to tender for construction once the redesign and consultation has been finalised”.

“At this rate, I think we would all be surprised if the actual works on the intersection commenced before Christmas next year”, said Matthew Wales.

“Also of concern is the continual rise in construction costs and materials and with every delay, this surely will impact on the final cost of the signalised intersection”.

“We can only hope that the allocated $32M is going to be enough noting that the budget was doubled way back in 2021”, said Matthew Wales.

“With the increased pressure on our roads, the Chamber is encouraging Council to move quickly in finalising the design process and putting the project out to tender”.

“And meanwhile, 80% of our local roads remain without kerb and gutter, stormwater drainage and usable footpaths”, said Matthew Wales.

END

Matthew Wales
President
Peninsula Chamber of Commerce