On Sunday, September 22 the TVC held a general meeting. Issues discussed included the results of the Big Ideas Community Survey about the redevelopment of the Thirroul Plaza site, a summary of which was provided in the October edition of The Illawarra Flame. Present at the meeting was the Member for Heathcote, Maryanne Stuart, who provided updates on issues of interest.
Bulli Bypass
Maryanne reported that TfNSW is completing a Strategic Business Case (SBC) for a bypass of Bulli. This is a more detailed activity than a feasibility study. Investigations and assessment are underway and are expected to be completed by the first quarter of 2025. The SBC (Stage 2) will include analysis and shortlisting of options, including economic appraisal by mid-2025. The final business case will commence after the SBC has been independently reviewed and assured by Infrastructure for NSW. If the project is supported to proceed, the final business case (Stage 3) would likely commence around the second quarter of 2025 and be completed around late 2026.
Intersection of Lawrence Hargrave Drive (LHD) and Raymond Road
Maryanne said $2.43 million has been committed to raising the intersection of LHD and Raymond Road under the Towards Zero Safer Roads Program as a means to improve pedestrian safety at this location. Funding has been allocated over the 2024-25 and 2025-26 financial years, with the first year dedicated to consultation and planning. Construction is scheduled for the following year.
TfNSW will consult with nearby businesses, schools and residents during the planning phase this financial year to understand any challenges or concerns related to implementing the raised safety platform treatment. TfNSW will also prepare visualisations to demonstrate what it might look like once completed. Flooding challenges are a primary focus. TfNSW will be working closely with WCC to understand current flood challenges and how this project may affect the movement of water.
E-Bikes and E-Scooters
There is an enquiry by the Upper House into the use of E-Bikes, E-Scooters and related mobility options. The terms of reference include making this mode of transportation safer for the riders and the community; the impact they have in relieving congestion and addressing social disadvantage; the role of all levels of government in enabling and encouraging safe electrified active transport options. Submissions closed on 18 August and a public hearing on the matter was set to begin on October 29 at Parliament House, Sydney.
Creating Safer Connections
Changes are proposed at local railway stations, including Thirroul, Bulli, Stanwell Park, Austinmer, Corrimal, Helensburgh and Coniston, as part of the Creating Safer Connections to Train Stations projects. What is proposed at Thirroul is:
• Building a new footpath across the traffic island near Railway Parade
• Bus stop upgrades including the extension of kerb outside the station entrance
• Installing 5 new light poles in the Thirroul Train Station south carpark – on the south-eastern side of the train line near Thomas Gibson Park. The TVC made a submission to Council about the proposal and now awaits the next stage.
The next TVC meeting will be at 4pm, Sunday, November 24 at TRIPS Hall, Railway Parade Thirroul, contact thirroulvillagecommittee@gmail.com
