Tackling trucks in Melbourne’s West

By Molly Magennis

The state government will invest $350,000 to install traffic surveillance monitoring cameras in Melbourne’s west to ensure the ongoing safety on roads that are predominantly dominated by trucks.

The cameras are part of the government’s major investment to create more direct and efficient freight to port connections, which would help move thousands of trucks away from residential areas.

The project will be delivered by the department of transport, with the cameras to capture traffic on key routes where legislated trucks curfews and limits have been put in place.

Additional signage will also be placed on key routes within these areas.

An updated guide has also been launched by the state government to help to educate truck drivers and outline exactly where and when drivers can travel through certain parts of the west.

This guide was developed in collaboration with the Maribyrnong Truck Action Group, Victorian Transport Association, the National Heavy Vehicle Regulator and Maribyrnong Council.

Roads and road safety minister Ben Carroll this project has factored in both the needs of the local community and the freight transport industry.

“This investment into new cameras and an updated guide is the result of a collaborative approach that has ensured both the needs of the inner west community and the long-term viability of the freight task and transport network are addressed.”