Main Roads looking at way forward on the M1

Main Roads has begun an examination of the 22 recommendations emerging from the Queensland Ombudsman’s investigation into a concrete road surface on the Pacific Motorway.

The report focussed on 28 kilometres of road between the AlbertRiver at Beenleigh and Coombabah Creek at Gaven.

Director General of Main Roads, Alan Tesch, has apologised to affected residents.

“More importantly, this is an experience Main Roads has learnt from and it has already resulted in real improvements to service delivery,” he said.

“The department has already installed more than 23 kilometres of noise barriers but I note the Ombudsman has not recommended the concrete road surface be replaced and said that it is safe.

“We’re about to start work with the owners of 319 homes identified by the department as adversely affected by noise from the Pacific Highway at Helensvale.

“Main Roads will assess what needs to be done to individual homes in terms of air conditioning and window upgrades to mitigate noise. The funding needed for these works has already been set aside,” he said.

Transport and Main Roads Minister, Paul Lucas, said the report was about a decision taken ten years ago by the previous Coalition Government to rush the design and process for the Pacific Motorway after scrapping the so called “Koala Road”.

“What it shows is Main Roads could have done this job a lot better and serves to highlight the importance of thorough planning and design for road projects

“The report and its findings are directed at Main Roads rather than me as the Minister, but since the Pacific Highway upgrade a number of significant changes have been made to the way we build roads. Tugun Bypass is a good example. A lot more attention is being paid now than 10 years ago to noise impacts, with sound barriers to be built before the road opens.”

Mr Lucas said Main Roads acted in good faith and notes the Ombudsman made no finding of unlawful or improper actions by department staff, or the then minister Vaughan Johnson.

Main Roads will formally respond to the Ombudsman’s report by March 30.

Media Contact: Darren Roberts 3237 1947