Fatima Halloum
Residents say it’s notorious for flooding and “ridiculously dangerous” but Wyndham council has confirmed Dohertys Road is finally set for an upgrade.
The road, particularly between Tarneit and Derrimut Road, has received significant criticism from community members.
Wyndham resident of 20 years,Peter Savic, said he actively avoids the road and is “really surprised” there hasn’t been a fatality there.
“It used to be my preferred route but it’s gotten too busy now and it’s too dangerous,” Mr Savic said.
“It’s an 80-kilometre stretch of road with multiple dips and potholes and it floods, it’s absolutely shameful that they’ve neglected it like they have.”
Mr Savic said all the road needs is “a little bit of rain” for it to flood.
“Because we get regular rain events, the dam either side of the road is already holding a lot of water, it’s maybe 10 or 15 centimeters below the road,” Mr Savic said.
“If it was out in the back blocks of Victoria somewhere you’d go ‘ok understandable’, but it’s on the fringe of a major urban area not, it’s just ridiculous.”
Wyndham council acting director Peter McKinnon said council is currently undertaking pre-design studies for the road.
“This project includes developing a concept plan for a realigned Dohertys Road and bridge over Dry Creek (between Sapling Boulevard and Rosso Drive), to remove the flooding issues associated with the low creek crossings,” Mr McKinnon said.
Councillor Josh Gilligan says residents are “quite rightly” outraged and council has prioritised the project
“We’ve heard them and that’s why we’re getting on with making sure that the designs are done, and then getting on with construction,” he said.
“It’s quite a technical, complex design because if you think about it, bridges are not something that councils ordinarily do. It’s a really specialised space.”
