Discussions start on rail crossing replacement?

Discussions have started between the State Government and Central Coast Council over the replacement of the Rawson Rd rail crossing, according to the Peninsula Chamber of Commerce.

Chamber president Mr Matthew Wales welcomed the move.

"We welcome the initial discussions with the Central Coast Council which firstly will determine Council's position on the project, followed by the cost-benefit of the works and then to assess whether there are other alternatives to the costly underpass at the base of Bulls Hill," Mr Wales said.

"It is imperative to ensure that any solution to the problem is based on sound information, costings and accurate scoping of the works.

"Sadly, this project has been grossly mishandled in the past with virtually no preliminary assessment of the works required and the true costing of the rail crossing replacement.

"This regrettably led to the cost blowing out to nearly $120 million and the ultimate abandonment of the project," he said.

"You can fix a lot of roads, intersections and stormwater drains for $120 million so it's in everyone's interests to ensure that if this project does move forward, it is for the right reasons and not simply to enhance the election prospects of political hopefuls," Mr Wales said.

SOURCE:

Media release, 9 Aug 2018

Matthew Wales, Peninsula Chamber of Commerce