VicRoads to review Punt Rd ‘crash zone’ after resident complaints

VICROADS says it will investigate the Punt Rd surface after revelations of a series of crashes in a section of the commuter corridor.

A two-car collision on Punt Rd on June 9, 2017. Pic: Supplied

VICROADS will review its investigation of a section of Punt Rd which has been blighted by a series of crashes in a short stretch of the commuter corridor.

Last week the Herald Sun revealed six cars has careered into the fences of four homes in the past year, usually in the wet.

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Residents said they lived in fear of further accidents after the series fence smashes as well as other road collisions.

They say the road has become smooth because of the high traffic volume over 20 years.

Now VicRoads said it would retest the road surface which was last relaid in 1997.

Regional director metro west Vince Punaro said VicRoads would work closely with residents to ensure they feel safe.

How the Herald Sun revealed the problem on November 10.

“We’re carrying out further investigation of this section, looking at factors including driver behaviour, vehicle speed and road conditions,’’ Mr Punaro said.

The road surface will be retested to see if treatment is required.

Punt Rd is one of Melbourne busiest road corridors, with more than 35,000 vehicles every day.

The accidents often have occurred when it rains after a dry spell has left residue oil and rubber on the surface.

Motorists have reported they had aquaplaned off the road as they accelerated up the hill towards Domain Rd.

A VicRoads report recommended resurfacing of the road but only “Slippery When Wet” signs have been installed.

The report also bizarrely described the Punt Rd traffic as “light”.

Residents said many children walk up the road to the South Yarra Primary.

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