Work on lights at fatal junction

By- Callan Date
VICROADS has given the green light for work to begin to install traffic signals at a notorious Hampton Park intersection.
Works at the intersection of Hallam South Road, Empire Way and Keppel Drive started in July and are due to be completed by the end of 2007.
The news has delighted no-one more than Lynda Cartmill – the Hampton Park woman who has been campaigning strongly for the lights to be installed since her husband, Colin, was killed in a collision at the site in February 2005.
Ms Cartmill said it was comforting knowing that other motorists would be spared the dangerous intersection now the lights were being installed.
“I’m happy. It’s about bloody time but I’m happy,” Ms Cartmill said.
She said she had seen several accidents at the dangerous intersection since the fateful day she lost her partner.
“This is one of those personal things. It’s something you never get over. It’s just part of you forever.
“We go up there quite a lot and trying to get into those factories is near on impossible. You have about six different lanes of traffic turning all different ways.
“It just makes you feel a little bit at ease now the work is being done,” Ms Cartmill said.
VicRoads regional manager of metro south east Steve Brown said the installation of traffic lights at the intersection would make up a major part of the works.
“During the works there will be minimal impact on traffic and reduced speed limit to 40kmh during off-peak travel times,” Mr Brown said.
“The project is estimated at $1.7 million and is part of the Government’s $172.3 million Arrive Alive! Safer Roads Program.”
He said the works would be funded by the Transport Accident Commission and are part of the Government’s ongoing moves to improve safety and conditions for road users across Victoria.