Turning lane on the table

Main Roads is unable to deliver on widely supported plans for a roundabout near Yallingup Hall any time soon but will consider suggestions of a left-turn lane in the interim.

Figures show more than 4000 vehicles use the intersection a day and locals last week told the Times the situation was becoming unsafe, with traffic banking up 500m to one kilometre every weekend and impatient drivers forging an informal left-turn.

A Main Roads spokeswoman said a left-turn lane — suggested by businesses and Vasse MLA Libby Mettam after learning the roundabout was not a priority in this or the next Budget — would be considered but stressed its limitations.

“These options are extremely limited and will not reduce congestion and frustration during peak periods, such as long weekends and school holidays,” she said.

“Main Roads is planning for a long-term solution at this location, which includes a new roundabout with the provision of slip lanes, however this is currently unfunded.”

A transfer of land took place under the previous government for a roundabout at the section of Caves Road where it hits a T-junction and heads left to Yallingup via Yallingup Beach Road, or right to Dunsborough continuing as Caves Road.

Last year, $100,000 was allocated as part of the WA Safer Roads Program, which will go towards the project’s development once funded.

The spokeswoman said the department would have a better indication of construction time lines “should funding become available”.

Ms Mettam last week wrote to Transport Minister Rita Saffioti urging her to prioritise the project.