Road safety in spotlight anew as shadow minister visits

Shadow police and road safety minister Peter Katsambanis’ regional visit last week brought concerns about Bussell Highway back into focus.

“The one thing that has been brought up with me again and again over the last few days is the need for a dual highway,” Mr Katsambanis said at a public meeting last Tuesday morning.

“You need it now, not in four to five years when this will next be brought to the table.”

Despite missing out on funding for a dual carriageway between Capel and Busselton in the 2017-18 State Budget, the road remains a prominent concern in the region, particularly after being named one of RAC’s top 10 riskiest WA roads.

Transport Minister Rita Saffioti said she understood community sentiment in regard to the duplication of Bussell Highway.

“Main Roads is already undertaking pre-construction works in anticipation of a potential future upgrade, including design and environmental impact surveys,” she said.

“This work is ongoing for several reasons, including environmental approval processes, service relocations and pre-loading of sand.”

While road safety concerned Mr Katsambanis, the boost to police resources was a decidedly positive change in the region. Vasse MLA Libby Mettam said the resource increase came after campaigning and a local petition, which led to the provision of greater services.

“The recent boost of police detectives from two to six enables Busselton police to target the causes of crime and repeat or serial offenders,” she said.