By Nicole Williams
A PAKENHAM resident claims a nearby intersection is a death trap after a recent contract dispute suddenly stopped road works.
Roadworks on the corner of Pakenham Road and Syme Road ‘stopped overnight’ in October after a dispute between a developer and the contractor.
For two months, drivers have been battling with bad visibility and unsafe conditions in the area.
Michael, who did not want his surname used, said he lives near the intersection and it had been left in a disgusting state.
“It’s disgusting,” he said. “There are storm water drains just covered with chip board and kids play there.”
“I’ve seen cars run off Syme road and into where they’re putting turning lane and when trying to turn left into Syme road visibility is very bad.”
Cardinia Shire Council’s assets and services general manager Michael Ellis said the works were part of VicRoads requirements for the subdivision of land on Pakenham Road.
“Works have halted at the intersection due to a contractual issue between the developer of the subdivision and the contractor undertaking the intersection works,” Mr Ellis said.
“Cardinia Shire Council is of the understanding that VicRoads has issued a notice to the developer for the works to recommence immediately.”
A VicRoads spokesperson said the works were being undertaken by a private developer.
“VicRoads is currently working with the developer and Council to resolve this matter however timeframes on when works will recommence are still to be confirmed,” the spokesperson said.
“In the interim VicRoads is monitoring the site on a regular basis to ensure it is safe for traffic.”
Mr Ellis said council was concerned that the works had stopped.
“Council is concerned about the delay and has met with senior management of VicRoads offering assistance to resolve both the dispute and completion of the project,” he said.
“Council is awaiting advice from VicRoads as a result of the communication with the developer, as to when works may recommence on site and how we can assist to ensure the delivery of the project.”
