Goulburn Mulwaree Council says it is working with the Department of Planning, Housing and Infrastructure to manage community concerns and assess impacts on road condition and safety after the Department endorsed increased road freight volumes following a train derailment on Saturday.
The derailment of the Southern Shorthaul Railroad (SSR) service at the Berrima Road level crossing led to the national rail safety regulator suspending the accreditation of SSR and its rail operations, requiring Boral – the operator of the cement works in New Berrima – to temporarily move product by road from Peppertree Quarry and the Marulan South Limestone Mine.
As a result of the Government decision, road haulage volumes will increase until 15 August, or until SSR’s rail accreditation is reinstated.
“Under these arrangements, Boral may dispatch up to 300 laden trucks per day from Peppertree Quarry and up to 150 laden trucks per day from the Marulan South Limestone Mine, operating 24 hours a day, seven days a week. This will result in a significant increase in heavy vehicle movements on Marulan South Road and other local freight routes,” said Goulburn Mulwaree Council, General Manager, Scott Gallacher (pictured, main image).
“While Council was not consulted prior to the Department’s decision, we are now working with Boral to manage community concerns and assess impacts on road condition and safety.”
Mr Gallacher said the Council will undertake urgent condition assessments of the affected road and continue discussions with Boral regarding monitoring, maintenance and mitigation measures during this temporary period.
“Council acknowledges the concerns of residents and will continue to advocate for the community while supporting safe and effective freight movements,” he said.
