A Premier Who Blocks Borders - And Stops People Crossing A Road
The Andrews Government’s coronavirus lockdowns have crippled and ended thousands of businesses across the state.
However, the Government has done even further damage to a Warrnambool business.
The installation of controversial wire rope barriers has seriously impeded access to a motel and accommodation facility, Country Life Accommodation on the Princes Highway.
Member for Western Victoria says the decision defies a promise from the Government to do otherwise.
“A chicken might be able to cross the road, but people wanting to get in and out of this business cannot,” Mrs McArthur said.
“It smacks of an arrogant Government: it says one thing – then does whatever it likes.”
In the Victorian Parliament, Mrs McArthur asked the Minister for Roads and Roads Safety, Ben Carroll, when his department would rectify the issue.
“When will these promises be honoured?” she asked.
The potential impact of the wire rope barriers was discussed with the motel operators, Kelly and Carl McKenzie, prior to their installation.
It was made clear to the Government at the time, that the barriers would prevent motel users from accessing the property’s crossover to the opposite carriageway.
A campus of Deakin University is just down the road, and visitors to the campus who stay at the motel are among those now impacted.
Mrs McArthur said the installation of the barriers directly contravenes an agreement.
“The closure comes despite assurances from senior transport department staff.
“My question related to unfulfilled promises made by the Safer Roads team in March 2020 to improve access from the left-hand approach lane to the property and to install signage on both sides of the road to assist access.
“Business is tough enough. The closure makes it harder still,” Mrs McArthur said.
“This belligerent action reveals plenty about the Government’s attitude to business and country Victoria.”
9 September 2021
