By Tyler Wright
Yarra Ranges Council’s councillors have moved to accept the $1,122,391.17 (GST exclusive) from TMD Earthworks Pty Ltd as part of a Special Charges Scheme for the sealing of Nation Road in Selby.
The project is part of the council’s Roads for Community Program and is subject to federal government funding being confirmed.
The Director of Environment and Infrastructure was delegated the authority to sign the contract documents in a council meeting on Tuesday 13 December.
Lyster Ward Councillor Johanna Skelton moved the motion.
“This one is really important from a safety perspective, being so close to the forest, and having a lot of people who live either on the road, or off it, “ Cr Skelton said.
“It’s a cluster of homes and residents that have a significant bushfire risk nearby, so I really think that this road being sealed will help access in or out in an emergency and I really hope we get it done.”
Cr Skelton said there had been fear regarding the speed of water that might come off a sealed road in comparison to an unsealed road, but documents confirmed that swales and different water movement considerations would be looked at, and used, when the road is sealed.
“I know when this came before us previously there was one resident concerned from a hardships perspective about this, and I want to reiterate that if that resident, or any other residents, are suffering financial hardship they should please get in contact with council to enter into an arrangement if they can,” she said.
Streeton Ward Councillor Andrew Fullagar seconded the motion.
“It’s part of that Roads for Community Program which has been so fantastic and we’ve enjoyed passing these wonderful motions over many years,” Cr Fullagar said.
“Lets hope it continues into the future with our strong advocacy.”
The motion was carried unanimously.
