The Roads and Maritime Sevices (RMS) are disputing claims made by local business owner Tony Gilding about the completion of the Pacific Highway upgrade between Tintenbar and Ewingsdale.
Mr Gilding told Echonetdaily that, ‘In early 2016 Ben Franklin and I met with RMS and they made a list of promises including completing the St Helena lookout and clear signage for direction to the castle among other things and it is clear that they have not kept all their promises.’
This position was supported by National Party MLC Ben Franklin as reported by Echonetdaily several days ago when Mr Franklin confirmed that ‘I have been working closely with Tony Gilding in trying to address the Macadamia Castle’s road issues for the last year and a half.’
‘While the upgraded Pacific Highway provides a wonderful benefit for locals and tourists alike, some businesses have taken a hit due to insufficient signage and other challenges.
‘Some issues have been resolved, but others have not. That is very frustrating for me as someone who always tries to stand up for our local community before any other consideration.’
Responding to questions from Echonetdily a Roads and Maritime Services spokesperson said, ‘Roads and Maritime Services has worked with the owner of Macadamia Castle for a number of years to minimise the impact of the Tintenbar to Ewingsdale Pacific Highway upgrade.’
‘Roads and Maritime has met its commitments and obligations to the owner of Macadamia Castle while taking into consideration community benefit, guidelines, public value for money and environmental factors.’
RMS have not completed works
However, Mr Gilding has pointed out that there are several matters outstanding that the RMS have not completed.
‘They need to meet and discuss the situation,’ said Mr Gilding.
‘They need to discuss why don’t they move the signs? Why don’t they complete the St Helena information bay? Why don’t they measure the noise at the rear of the castle effectively?
‘It is clear that they have not kept all their promises’
Ben Franklin supports Mr Gilding and believes that the’RMS should meet with local landholders and businesses to ensure that the have completed their work to everyone’s satisfaction.’
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