A plan to revamp a section of road has been knocked by a long-term local who says it would lead to safety concerns and the removal of trees.
Sunshine Coast Council has outlined a plan to upgrade the Ferntree Creek Road and Upper Ferntree Creek Road junction – an unsealed stretch of road – at Kulangoor.
Councillor David Law said the works were “essential”.
“We are committed to enhancing road safety and improving the quality of our roads for Sunshine Coast residents,” he said.
But Chris Birtles, who has lived in the area for about 40 years, was concerned that it wouldn’t be safer at all and several trees would make way for the project.
He was worried about the proposed design of the intersection, which includes a bend.
“Trucks that frequent the road will be forced to slow down to a crawl, then accelerate hard to climb the hill,” he said.
“I think trucks (and traffic in general) will simply cut the corner on the redesigned intersection to get up the hill.”
He said he planted many of trees by the road 20 years ago, without any issues.
“A lot of birds frequent them and at least one ring-tailed possum lives there,” he said.
“There are lilly pillies and silky oaks.
“I picked native trees to provide fruit and flowers for local wildlife, and they make a good dust and noise barrier.”
But Cr Law detailed how the upgrade should lead to safer conditions.
“The works will include widening and sealing the intersection and installing clear road line marking and signs, which eliminates any ambiguity at the rail crossing and ensures slower speeds are observed,” he said.
“This project will reduce dust for nearby residents and create a safer road environment for all users.”
He confirmed trees would be removed, without revealing how many, and said more would be planted nearby.
“While the upgrade is expected to follow the existing road alignment, some trees and shrubs on the western side of the road will be removed,” he said.
“As part of council’s offset requirements, vegetation will be planted onsite.”
Cr Law said locals had opportunities to provide feedback during the initial design investigations.
“I spoke with residents and answered their questions about the proposed sealing of this section during the final stages prior to construction,” he said.
“We appreciate the community’s feedback and support as we move forward with these essential improvements, which are planned to start at the end of the current financial year.”
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