Minister misses the point on Coolum traffic concerns

The announcement that traffic lights are to be installed on the Coolum-Yandina Road on the junction with Central Avenue and Yungar Street has baffled local residents who are concerned about the more urgent issue of congestion at the junction with South Coolum Road.

The Minister has failed to listen to community concerns about traffic congestion at the roundabout near the school which is the crucial access point for ambulance to the Sunshine Motorway and most of Coolum.

I raised concerns on behalf of the local community with both the Minister for Police and Emergency Services and the Minister for Main Roads, arguing that the upgrade of the roundabout junction should have a higher priority.

Both Cr Vivien Griffen and I believe there should be more urgency to address the congestion at the roundabout rather than putting in traffic lights 300 metres to the east of this problem area. 

I am concerned that the current gridlock impedes safe access for the community and in particular the ambulance and this is the issue that needs to be addressed.