Hinchinbrook MP, Andrew Cripps, has welcomed news that interim works on the Bruce Highway that will improve safety at the intersections of Bowden and Church Roads on Townsville’s Northern Beaches, will commence next week.

Mr Cripps said he understood the initial works would include road line remarking to provide for safer opportunities for traffic to turn, a reduction in the speed limit to 80 km/h and the installation of vehicle activated flashing speed signs.

“I’m pleased these interim safety works are proceeding – this is one of the issues I raised on behalf of the local community during the state election campaign earlier this year and it looks like we are getting some results” said Mr Cripps.

“Getting the speed limit lowered on the Bruce Highway is important because traffic coming off the Black River Bridge behind vehicles turning into Bowden Road or Church Road don’t have much room to manoeuvre” he said.

Mr Cripps said he remained committed to pushing for more permanent upgrades to the Bowden Road and Church Road intersections and would continue to lobby the Queensland and Commonwealth Governments for funding.

“While these interim works are welcome as a first step to improve safety for residents of Townsville’s Northern Beaches, a more permanent solution is needed and I’ll continue to advocate for my constituents on this important issue”.

“I thank local Main Roads officers for responding to my representations on behalf of the local community and ask that motorists exercise caution on this section of the Bruce Highway while these works are being undertaken”.