Council continues push for filtration

Willoughby Council is planning further action in the push for tunnel filtration and the protection of resident's health.

Last week's council meeting ended in an agreement to request a report on the costs and processes of legal action that may arise due to the tunnel filtration issue.

As reported by the North Shore Times, Cr Stuart Coppock, who put forward the motion, said the report aimed to help action groups such as Mums and Dads Against Stacks (MAD AS) determine whether there is or will be a legal cause for action.

There have been many studies showing the negative health consequences of vehicle emissions that will be removed through tunnel stacks, affecting thousands of local residents in a two kilometre pollution zone.

However, general manager of the council, John Owen, has warned that it is not a first step towards the council pursuing a court challenge on behalf of local groups. It is simply for information gathering purposes in order to benefit the community and help clarify legal rights surrounding this issue.

The council will also appeal to Federal Opposition leader Kevin Rudd in its push for funding to filter the Lane Cove Tunnel. The State Government has given written assurance to Mayor Pat Reilly that it will pay half the cost of filtering the tunnel, on the condition that the Federal Government cover the other half. The undertaking has been confirmed by State Roads Minister Eric Roozendaal.

This development comes as Connector Motorways, the company that built and operates the Lane Cove Tunnel, announced Australia's first frequent driver package, where one in ten trips will be free.

The offer is valid only for motorists who open or switch to a Roam Express e-Tag. There is a limit of ten free trips in the first year.

Connector Motorways are enjoying the success of the tunnel, which has been cutting travel time. More than 75,000 motorists have used the tunnel each day since its opening, near Connector Motorway's target of 80,000 per day.

However, Epping Road is yet to be narrowed, which will increase congestion and driver frustration ouside the tunnel.

By Kate Schneider

19-04-2007