Lobby group says NSW Labor should liaise with industry on road projects.
The trucking industry has welcomed the New South Wales Opposition’s plan to pump $2 billion into the road network, but says it must be consulted on projects to be funded.
NSW Opposition leader Luke Foley last week announced Labor’s infrastructure program if it wins next month’s state election.
The $10 billion infrastructure program includes $2 billion for roads, with more than half of the amount going to regional areas.
ATA NSW manager Jodie Broadbent says funding road projects will boost productivity in NSW but that the investments must benefit general road users and the trucking industry.
“By liaising with the trucking industry, the shadow ministers will gain an appreciation of the issues faced by long-distance drivers, and how we can make the road safer for all road users,” she says.
Broadbent’s comment comes after the recent problems truck drivers encountered over the festive period when tourists took up spots at heavy vehicle rest areas.
“These critical rest area issues highlight the need for better consultation with industry at the design stage of new road projects,” she says.
Broadbent wants signs erected at heavy vehicle rest areas to notify motorists parking is reserved for truck drivers.