Reg Rds Metro Region Scheme Amendment rationalises land set aside for road widening

25/4/98

Planning Minister Graham Kierath said there was good news for the owners of almost 650 properties on eight regional roads in the metropolitan area.

The Regional Roads (Part 3) Metropolitan Region Scheme Amendment passed through State Parliament earlier this month, rationalising (and mostly reducing) the amount of land set aside for future road widening.

Roads affected by the changes include sections of Beaufort Street, Broun Avenue, William Street, Main Street, Claremont Crescent, Shenton Road, Sevenoaks Street and Albany Highway.

"On almost 650 properties this amendment has either completely removed or significantly reduced the amount of land that may be required for future road improvements," Mr Kierath said.

"The amendment was the third to date in a series aimed at streamlining and modernising road reserves which were drawn up in the 1960s and 1970s.

"It implemented recommendations of the 1991 Road Reserves Review which identified roads where some of the reserved land was surplus to requirements."

Revised reserves are generally 23m to 30m wide, reduced from 30m to 50m.

"To provide accurate road reserves, design concept plans were prepared which also allow for improved safety," Mr Kierath said.

"Future improvements on these roads allow for intersection improvements, improved traffic flow and safety, wider kerbside lanes for safer cycling and median strips to make road crossing safer for pedestrians.

"The plans also recognise the need to protect recognised heritage buildings and existing trees and provide for landscaping."

Media contact: Steve Manchee 9481 2133