Springfield Lakes commuters are facing significant disruptions due to the ongoing closure of Exit 33 on the Centenary Highway. No firm reopening date is in sight, and community frustration is mounting over handling the situation.
Landslide Causes Major Disruption
A significant landslide, which occurred on 16 January 2025, has severely impacted the on-ramp to Yamanto and created a safety hazard for the off-ramp from Brisbane at Exit 33. The slip has blocked access and raised concerns about further instability, especially with more rain predicted.
Transport and Main Roads Queensland (TMR) cannot provide a definitive timeline for reopening, stating it could be approximately two months, though this remains unconfirmed. They have indicated that the off-ramp from Brisbane might be reopened sooner, contingent on a safety assessment and site stabilisation.
Community Concerns and Lack of Communication
The extended closure has placed significant pressure on other exits and arterial roads, causing considerable delays for residents. Community members have expressed anger and frustration, with many claiming the landslide has been a known issue for years, with visible signs of deterioration in Google Images from early March 2024.
They criticise the perceived lack of action until the situation escalates to a full closure, suggesting that earlier intervention could have prevented the current crisis. Residents have also raised concerns about removing a right turn at a nearby exit, which they believe has worsened the traffic flow in the area. During the closure, there are calls for better signage to direct traffic to alternative routes.
Information Scarcity and Political Fallout
The difficulty obtaining clear information from TMR adds to the community’s frustration. The local State Member has reported being unable to receive updates on the situation, despite repeated attempts to contact the department.
They claim that this lack of communication stems from a new government directive restricting the flow of information to local representatives. This alleged political interference has drawn criticism, with the Member emphasising the practical, non-political nature of the information being sought.
The lack of clear, timely communication has further fueled community anger and uncertainty. The Member has stated they are continuing to pursue the issue with TMR. The status of the additional left turn lane at nearby Exit 32, originally slated for completion at the end of January, also remains unclear.
Published Date 06-Feb-2025