By Peter Douglas
‘Band-aid solution’ roadworks along Birmingham Road in Mount Evelyn are threatening the safety of local children, according to nearby residents.
Mount Evelyn local Tim Barrot is among a group of around 12 people who are voicing their concerns over recent works along a gravel drain, which Yarra Ranges Council upgraded “for the second time in as many years”.
Mr Barrot told the ‘Mail’ the problem increases twofold, with the gravel washing off into the stormwater pits, but gravel also being strewn along the busy road and causing a hazard for drivers and pedestrians.
“One issue with this type of repair is that if gravel washes onto the road on such a steep hill and a child runs out onto the road, we could have a major issue with braking, particularly in the wet,” he said.
“The drain, (even) after minimal rain and after being repaired about two weeks ago, has already washed into the storm water pits. We haven’t even had any decent rain either.
“(Yarra Ranges Council) needs to wake up and be taken to task for allowing money to be wasted in an unproductive manner, again.”
Mr Barrot believes these kind of “half-baked patch-up jobs” are starting to become a theme around the area and someone needs to be held to account.
“I’m a big believer in doing things properly the first time around. If you spend a little more money and do it properly, it may end up saving you money down the track,” he said.
“Not to mention this is an eyesore and potentially dangerous for the community.”
The school crossing in question is used by students and parents of Birmingham Primary School, with the road itself one of the busiest in Mount Evelyn, connecting commuters to Swansea and Hereford roads.
The ‘Mail’ has attempted to contact Yarra Ranges Council and will endeavour to publish a response at a later date.
