The Southern Grampians Shire Council has officially adopted its 2025-2029 Road Management Plan (RMP), marking a significant step in local infrastructure management. This plan, which is mandated by the Road Management Act 2004, serves as the framework for inspecting, maintaining, and prioritising the region’s roads and footpaths. The council is required to review its RMP every four years to ensure it meets the community’s evolving needs.
This new plan outlines the council’s strategies for road inspections, maintenance response times, intervention thresholds, and asset management practices. The objective is to maintain a safe, affordable, and sustainable local road network for residents and visitors alike.
Community Engagement Shapes New Road Strategy
Mayor Dennis Heslin highlighted that the plan was developed following a thorough review of the previous 2021-2025 RMP and extensive community engagement efforts. “Three targeted engagement sessions were held in bushfire-affected communities, alongside three drop-in sessions in Hamilton, Coleraine, and Dunkeld. We also provided an online consultation portal for additional community feedback,” Cr Heslin stated.
The engagement process revealed several key themes that influenced the new RMP. Residents expressed their concerns regarding:
– **Road Maintenance:** Priorities for grading schedules, vegetation management, drainage, and addressing other defects.
– **Administration:** Clarity regarding road ownership—whether under council or state jurisdiction—and guidance on reporting issues.
– **Funding:** Discussions around budget priorities and identifying potential funding sources.
– **Application of the RMP:** Considerations regarding construction standards, fire access, heavy vehicle use, and intervention times.
Key Changes and Improvements
Significant changes in the new RMP include a refined road and footpath hierarchy, ensuring that categorisation aligns more closely with community needs and usage patterns. The frequencies of road and footpath inspections, as well as intervention levels, have been modified to achieve greater consistency with risk assessments and usage. This will enhance the understanding of the council’s responsibilities within the road reserve.
Cr Heslin expressed gratitude to all who participated in the community sessions, saying, “Thank you to everyone who came along, asked questions, shared ideas, and challenged us to think differently. Your feedback has helped us fine-tune the plan to ensure it serves our communities effectively now and into the future.”
The adoption of the 2025-2029 Road Management Plan coincides with the council receiving its lowest score for sealed road management in the recent community satisfaction survey, underscoring the importance of addressing local concerns regarding road conditions.
The council’s proactive approach seeks to enhance the quality of roads and footpaths while actively involving the community in the decision-making process. This strategy aims not only to improve current infrastructure but also to lay a solid foundation for future developments within the Southern Grampians Shire.
