The member for Kiama Gareth Ward has used Parliament to ask further questions to the Minister for Transport and Roads about dramatic changes to weight restrictions on the Hampden Bridge in Kangaroo Valley which will have significant impacts on farmers, business and animal welfare.
“The Government lied. They said there had been consultation with the Kangaroo Valley Community Consultative Body (KVCCB). But the KVCCB has said, there was no consultation on this specific proposal with them,” Mr Ward said.
“Not only with this weight reduction significantly increase costs to primary producers and business, but this change will also mean livestock from the Shoalhaven will be on the road for longer as they make the trip to the sale yards in Moss Vale.
“All our community is asking for is that the NSW Government pause its proposed 30 May date for the implementation of this change and properly consult the community. It’s not an unreasonable request.
“This Government is fast developing a reputation for failing to consult with our local communities on major changes that impact regional NSW.
“It doesn’t matter whether it’s the Hampden Bridge, a massive reduction in speed zones on Jamberoo Road, Riverside Drive or Bolong Road, or the turning back on of speed cameras that were previously deemed a dirty revenue raisers by Transport for NSW, this government continues to ignore our local community and do whatever it wants.
“Whilst they are all on the coast for happy snaps today, it’s time they started listening and acting,” Mr Ward concluded.
