The NSW Nationals are calling on the Minns Labor Government to trial new road safety technology during flash flooding after another fatal incident in the Hunter Valley Wine Region last week.
One person was killed and another two were lucky to escape after being swept off the Black Creek causeway on Old North Road at Rothbury.
Shadow Minister for Regional Transport and Roads, Dave Layzell, said more needs to be done to keep our regional and rural communities safe.
“We have seen multiple tragedies occur in this same location and it needs to be a wake-up call for the Minns Government to look at increased road safety measures in the event of extreme wet weather,” Mr Layzell said.
“We know technology involving automated lights and boom gates to block off flooded roads has been successful in parts of Queensland already, and I’m calling on the Minister for Regional Transport and Roads to trial the same thing here.
“The government seems to be relying on local awareness campaigns, but that clearly isn’t working and it’s also leaving visitors at risk.
“The evidence shows this could be a realistic and reasonable solution, and a trial would provide an opportunity for residents in the Hunter region to give their feedback on what is working.
“The government is earnestly concerned with the road toll this year and a timely trial of automated technology could begin saving lives immediately.”
