By David Hatley
The closure of Champion Road, Williamstown, is a disaster for the local community. I could easily rant on a political basis here, but I’ll stick to the genuine concerns of the people of Williamstown, West Newport, Newport, and Altona North.
On the surface, level crossing removals are a win for trains and motorists; however, in this instance, whereby the Level Crossing Removal Project (LXRP) group decides to close a major, significant road link for a community, it is an abject failure.
I grew up in Altona North and, over the years, could not count the number of journeys utilizing the connection from Champion Road between the suburbs—it was so frequent & convenient.
The implications of closing Champion Road are far-reaching. There are currently only four real access points in and out of Williamstown; to remove one such as Champion Road is totally flawed and clearly shows the LXRP and State Government’s poor understanding of the travel logistics of the motorists using these roads. The financial implications to local businesses in West Newport and the concerns raised by them have been ignored by LXRP and the State Government.
Not forgetting those traveling from the Altona North side of Champion Road to visit Williamstown Cemetery will have significant delays once Champion Road closes.
Also the impacts of increased and backed-up traffic along Maddox Road for Newport Gardens Primary School, too.
Quite simply, Champion Road shouldn’t be closing. Sure, remove the level crossing, but provide an alternative underpass or overpass to ensure current access between the local suburbs is maintained.
Rescind the decision now, Jacinta Allan!
*Keep Champion Road Open is organising a Right to Reply Open Meeting to address growing concerns about the future of Champion Road on Tuesday 25th March. Stay connected via the Keep Champion Road Open Facebook page.
