Berwick electorate
Brad BATTIN (Berwick) (14:48): (524) My question is to the Minister for Water, and the question is: what information and advice does the minister have about the delays in the relocation of drains on Princes Highway near the intersection of Brunt and Whiteside roads in Beaconsfield and the time line for the completion of those works? We understand from information received from Cardinia council that the drainage installation in the central median strip has been delayed due to the clashes with underground infrastructure that now needs to be relocated. I have been informed that works are to recommence in approximately two weeks on the eastern side of the intersection. However, the relocation required to complete the balance of the works and remove the current traffic management are on the western side of the intersection, and there are currently no time lines for when this will occur. I can accept there will always be some inconvenience when it comes to roadworks; however, there has been little to no work done on the intersection since before Christmas. Meanwhile traffic eastbound is banking up well into Beaconsfield, causing huge 20- to 30-minute delays. Minister, we are seeking advice about these delays and the release of that information to the residents in the area so they can finally have an idea of when the traffic congestion will cease.