’Chaotic’ Essendon junction poses potentially fatal risks, traders say

A ‘CHAOTIC’ roundabout in Melbourne’s north used by trams, cars and pedestrians is baffling drivers amid claims it’s only a matter of time before someone is killed.

Traders want safety boosted at this chaotic Essendon roundabout, which is used by pedestrians, motorists and trams. Picture: Emily Black.

TRADERS are pleading for a chaotic Essendon junction — described as being “everything that is wrong with a roundabout” — to be fixed before someone is killed.

Traffic lights were installed at the intersection of Keilor, Bulla, Mt Alexander and Lincoln roads in 2007-08.

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But it has been to no avail, according to Laura Taylor of the Essendon North Traders Association, who said there were still at least two accidents there each week.

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“It’s just everything that is wrong with a roundabout,” Ms Taylor said.

“You’ve got pedestrians, a tram, a roundabout, sets of lights, a slip lane — you just can’t ask for anything worse and it’s all in one area.

“Someone will be killed here one day.”

Traffic on the corner of Mt Alexander Rd and Keilor Rd in Essendon North. Picture: David Smith

Ms Taylor claimed the majority of those involved in accidents were either inexperienced drivers or those unfamiliar with the area.

“There’s got to be some way you can eliminate some of the hazards,” she said.

Essendon state Labor MP Danny Pearson has called on the Minister for Roads and Road Safety Luke Donnellan to meet with traders, the council and VicRoads to discuss options for the dangerous intersection.

Moonee Valley Council chief executive Bryan Lancaster said they held concerns about the junction, with traffic management plans recommending a review be undertaken into the feasibility of improved traffic signals.

He said community consultation had identified the roundabout as “very confusing”, with 23 crashes recorded between July 2007 and June 2012.

Mr Donnellan said they were working closely with VicRoads to monitor the site and look at ways to improve safety.