DEATHLY concerns about the state of a Rankins Springs intersection has sparked calls from residents to see the site fixed up.
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A sharp turn in front of the pub where the Mid Western Highway meets Rankins Springs Road is often overcrowded and in need of repair, they say.
Longtime resident Julie Groat said almost every large truck taking the 45 degree-turn cross the double lines – and two heavy vehicles taking the corner at the same time is an “accident waiting to happen”.
“We’re worried one of our locals will be involved in an accident. It’s an accident waiting to happen. There’s just no room for everybody. Now you’ve got triples, doubles and road trains coming around that corner,” she said.
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“We’ve started noticing you can’t fit two trucks going around at the same time, regardless of which way they’re coming from.”
Member for Murray Austin Evans said his office had not received any contact from Rankins Springs residents about the road near the hotel.
However he said he ”welcomed contact from any concerned residents and would work hard to find solutions to their issues”.
People are also concerned a truck could hit the side of the pub if the turn was not correctly judged.
"A truck coming along could easily misjudge the turn; and crash into the wall of the pub. On a Friday night, it would take out half the town," fellow resident Gaylene Scanlon said.
Mrs Groat said people needed to be mindful when turning the corner and driving through town. Keeping to the speed limit has the potential to save a life.
”There are a few things that need to be done. We’re making locals aware now to be careful on that corner,” she said.
“Drive 50 kilometres through Rankins Springs. If you’re coming behind any of the trucks either way, please be mindful. Everyone has to start thinking about that corner.”
While there may be no resolution for Rankins Springs residents, Mr Evans has confirmed more than $60,000 will be spent upgrading the Mid-Western Highway between one and three kilometres west of the town.
“Additionally, $675,000 will utilised on the Mid Western Highway, near Rankins Springs, to improve the safety of the road and reduce the likelihood of crashes by installing a clear zone and sealed shoulders,” Mr Evans said.
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