Arrester bed tests to start next month

28/5/94

Main Roads will commence testing heavy vehicle arrester beds next month as part of the Government's action to improve traffic safety down Greenmount Hill.

Transport Minister Eric Charlton said a test site measuring three kilometres in length had been selected in Silver Road in the Gnangara pine plantation.

"The site is ideal because of its relative isolation, ensuring that the tests can be carried out with the least inconvenience to the public," he said.

"Main Roads will test a number of different types of lightweight aggregate in the arrester bed to evaluate stopping power.

"It is primarily interested in gravel screened to a uniform size of 10 millimetres.

"Whatever is used in the end must be capable of stopping a truck up to 70 tonnes in weight in an emergency situation."

Mr Charlton announced in March that work would begin immediately on providing two arrester beds down Greenmount Hill, the scene of a tragic heavy vehicle accident late last year.

He said funding promised by the Commonwealth to install the arrester beds had yet to be confirmed.

In addition, the Government was taking other measures to increase traffic safety on Greenmount Hill.

Design work had commenced for constructing four bus bays on the hill's descent so that buses picking up and setting down passengers stop off the highway and do not obstruct traffic flow.

The Government had also introduced improved warning signs, compulsory stops and checks for trucks at the top of Greenmount and was looking at further warning signs to enhance traffic safety.

Media contact:  Dean Roberts 321 7333 or 222 9595