How many more must lose their lives on Bolivia Hill?
29-July-2010
Source: Senator John Williams -
The Nationals Senator for New South Wales John Williams has criticised both the State and Federal Labor Governments for their failure to commit to a major redevelopment of Bolivia Hill on the New England Highway.
Senator Williams said too many accidents and fatalities have occurred on this stretch of road, the latest being the death of a motorcyclist on Tuesday.
Senator Williams said he raised this issue early last year with Minister Albanese who indicated funding for any upgrading was the responsibility of the State Government. He then wrote to the Member for Northern Tablelands Richard Torbay asking that he seek funding for the upgrade, but the NSW Government replied that any significant upgrade would require significant infrastructure funding.
"This is ludicrous when you consider the same Labor Government burnt between $300 and $400 million of taxpayers money on its failed metro project. No money to save lives on a busy highway in a regional area but plenty to waste in the city.
The Howard Coalition Government spent $10 million upgrading the stretch of Highway between Four Mile Creek and Bolivia Hill and the northern approaches to Bolivia Hill, but Labor at both levels have refused to meet their responsibilities.
Tenterfield Shire Council has lobbied for many years for funding for a feasibility study to ascertain the most viable safety treatment for Bolivia Hill, with suggestions that a second, divided carriageway be built for northbound traffic.
The Federal Member for New England Tony Windsor has failed dismally when it comes to getting funding for the New England Highway", Senator Williams said.
