Council seeks money for roads study

Gosford Council has resolved to seek funding from State and Federal Governments for a full investigation of all regional roads, following the closure of Woy Woy Rd.

The investigation would include underground piping and drainage.

At last week's council meeting, Cr Latella said she was not satisfied with council's plans to solely investigate the section of Woy Woy Rd that partially collapsed on April 24.

"I think the entire section of Woy Woy Rd should be looked at to ensure the future safety and stability of this major road," Cr Latella said.

"It would put the community's minds at ease to know that the roads they are using are safe.

"I think it is extremely important for us to look at the entire length of Woy Woy Rd, and investigate its road surface and underground piping structure."

In response, council general manager Mr Peter Wilson said that since the June long weekend tragedy last year the council had joined with the RTA to continually monitor the safety of all regional roads.

"We are continually putting all our resources into areas in need of further work," Mr Wilson said.

Council media officer Ms Kate Carragher said the repair of Bulls Hill Woy Woy Rd would be "expedited and given high priority".

Ms Carragher said signage would be erected in appropriate places advising of delays and alternate routes.

She said council would approach Member for Gosford Ms Marie Andrews and Minister for the Central Coast Mr John Della Bosca to seek their assistance and commitment to emergency financial assistance upon receipt of full engineering options and designs for fixing the Bulls Hill Woy Woy Rd pavement reconstruction.

Ms Andrews and Mr Della Bosca would also be asked to approach Minister for Roads Mr Eric Roozendaal to provide greater funding for regional roads rehabilitation.

Member for Robertson Ms Belinda Neal would also be approached by council for funding assistance.

Council agenda UM.8, 6 May 2008