Zoe Moffatt
Macedon Ranges and surrounding residents are calling for improvements on Melton Road, following persistent “dangerous” potholes.
A post to a local community Facebook page about the potholes on Melton Road, specifically near the intersection of Braeside Road, sparked a flurry of frustrated users expressing their concern.
“Ridiculous, seriously dangerous, terrible, disgraceful [and] uncar-worthy,” were just some of the words said in the more than 180 comments garnered on the post.
For Gisborne resident Michelle Rowe, who uses Melton Road multiple times per week to drive to work, she said potholes have been an issue for as long as she’s used the road.
“Some weeks I could [use the road] daily, to and from work, other weeks it could be three or four days a week,” Ms Rowe said.
“That patch of road is uneven and bumpy, you need decent repairs done. [The pothole near Braeside intersection] is probably the biggest and the worst one.
“It’s frustrating because it’s a small road, and you’re also looking out for wildlife. The groan you make when your car hits the pothole, you can feel it in your whole body.
“I wouldn’t be surprised if people have damaged their cars.”
Ms Rowe said she would like to see action on repairing the road, and stronger advocacy from Macedon Ranges council for the improvements of roads like Melton Road.
“It’s the only way in and out of Melton for us…I think our local government probably has to fight for us a bit more.
“I would hate to imagine how someone on a motorbike would go, having to go through that pothole.
“It’s not just so that it looks good, it’s a safety issue.”
In response to driver concerns, a transport and planning department spokesperson said that commuters can expect a solution soon.
“Our crews will be on site delivering asphalting works to Melton Road over the coming weeks,” the spokesperson said.
“We encourage the community to report hazards and concerns about the road network by calling 133 778.”
