Contruction of median strip down Great Eastern Highway

30/10/96

The construction of a median strip down Great Eastern Highway is a matter of safety.

Transport Minister Eric Charlton said today there had been 3,597 accidents on this stretch of road over the past 10 years including four deaths.

"The majority of these have been same-way accidents where motorists turning right cause traffic delays, frustration of other drivers and rear end accidents. The median strip will stop these and provide a much safer route for motorists," Mr Chalton said.

"After all, this is Great Eastern Highway - the main entry into Perth from the east and it includes all traffic to and from the airport. On a daily basis this is 45,000 vehicles.

"It would be totally irresponsible to leave the road in its previous condition whereby the movement of traffic is restricted by buses stopping in the left hand lane and motorists stopping in the outside lane to turn right bringing all traffic to a standstill and causing frustration and resulting in accidents."

Mr Charlton said the median strip should have been built down Great Eastern Highway five to 10 years ago. Both Leach and Albany Highways have similar traffic flow constructions.

"The median strip is to achieve fluid movement of traffic and to eliminate the accidents that have been happening. This is an issue of safety and with the approach of Christmas and the current traffic works taking place it was imperative to put in the median strip now."

"While some people may have to change their method of entry to premises, there are adequate right hand turn opportunities already in place and this will be complemented by additional works in the future."

Mr Charlton said there was evidence that already traffic flow was significantly easier and the safety benefits would be forthcoming.

Media contact: Sally Squires 321 7333