SHIRE of Mundaring councillors held a special council meeting earlier this week to set a defined position on Main Roads’ plans to clear vegetation on Great Eastern Highway as part of a safety upgrade.
The second stage of the upgrade is between Bilgoman and Kintore roads, spanning about 5.2km. The first stage of the project – between Kintore Road and Mann Street – was completed last month.
Councillors unanimously supported a motion on Monday night which stated that vegetation along the highway should not be removed until the council and the community are made aware of the extent of the clearing.
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READ NOWAny clearing of trees and vegetation should be kept to a minimum while allowing for safety outcomes.
They have also requested an urgent meeting with local State members and representatives from Western Power and Main Roads WA. (Western Power is scheduled to commence street lighting works in January 2018.)
Shire President John Daw said he recognised the need for the safety upgrade but he was also keen to see the effect on vegetation minimised.
“I appreciate we need to make Great Eastern Highway as safe as possible but we need to know exactly what will be cleared to ensure this is minimised and so we can share this information with the community,” he said.
“This is particularly important as the area in question is the main tree corridor entry for tourists and residents to feel the sense of space and sense of place that makes the Shire… the place it is.”
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