Rivergums intersection becoming ‘death trap’ says Baldivis MLA Whitby

Mr Whitby said more room was needed for turning traffic and lengthy waits to turn were causing impatience and creating more risky behaviour.

“There is not enough room to accommodate the increased traffic flow from the high school, primary school and general growth of the area,” he said.

“It’s a nightmare every morning and afternoon at school drop-off and pick-up.

“You only have to watch this intersection for a few minutes to see multiple near-misses; I hold my breath waiting for a crash every time I watch this intersection.

“This intersection is a death trap and needs to be fixed.”

He said he had met the City of Rockingham to discuss the intersection and was told roadworks would start soon.

Mayor Barry Sammels confirmed Mr Whitby had met the City and said they too had received complaints.

“There will be minor widening works at this intersection as part of the Baldivis Road upgrade,” he said.

“This widening will allow two vehicles to exit Rivergums Boulevard at the same time.

“Other works to assist with the congestion will be the opening of the Baldivis Road and Stillwater Drive intersection to full movements.

“At present this intersection is restricted to left in/left out movements only.

“These works have been planned for a few months and the City has been working with other State Government departments to finalise issues to allow the works to commence.

“The works will begin in June and are expected to take three months to complete.

Mr Whitby said it would Baldivis Road into a boulevard style road.

“There will be a median strip, turning lanes and cycle lanes.

“The big bonus will be changes to allow motorists to turn right off Stillwater Drive rather than perform dangerous U-turns.”