Former Roads Minister 'frustrated and disappointed'

While Mr Moroney's report on the F3 has made 31 recommendations, there appears to be no indication of a timetable in which we can expect to see any of these changes implemented.

Many of these recommendations are similar to those in the Rapid Response for New F3 Emergency Plan (2008) and the F3 Sydney-Newcastle Freeway Traffic Management Plan (2005).

Both these reports originated following similar lengthy delays on the F3.

I am totally frustrated and disappointed by the lack of progress in improving the traffic management on the F3.

This is by no means a new problem as motorists already know.

We all remember the promises made by the then Premier Bob Carr when he was personally caught in extensive delays more than ten years ago at the infamous "beer truck rollover" on January 8, 1999.

Since that time we have seen endless promises and inquiries and yet time and time again motorist and their families become prisoners on the F3 after major crashes.

My report includes a number of relatively simple recommendations which I believe could make a significant improvement.

Localised Command Centres: Three new garage, storage and office facilities which have been constructed along the F3 at Wahroonga, Mooney Mooney and Mt White should be adapted as localised traffic command centres.

Local Controllers to be in Charge: These command centres need to be manned 24 hours a day, with local controllers who have a detailed local knowledge not only of the F3, but also the surrounding local road system. Each of these localise command centres need to be coordinated through the main RTA Traffic Control Management Centre with a clear chain of command structure in place and understood by those manning the RTA Centre.

Electronic Signs to provide real time travel times: Currently more than 15 new electronic signs have been erected along the F3 and adjoining roads at a cost of many millions of dollars and yet they have completely failed to deliver any significant benefit to motorists. The effective use of these signs must include the provision of "real time" travel times between major exits such is the practice in both Queensland and Victoria.

Greater use of radio networks to provide accurate traffic reports: The RTA needs to invest resources into purchasing paid airtime to enable comprehensive and regular F3 traffic reports for commuters, and investigate the use of the override broadcast system which currently operates in the Sydney Harbour tunnel, where all radio frequencies are overridden allowing RTA messages to be relayed directly to motorists

RTA patrols should carry emergency water and food supplies at all times. Extensive supplies of water and non perishable food should also be stored at Wahroonga, Mooney Mooney and Mt White for distribution during delays.

Email, 3 Oct 2010 Jim Lloyd, Mooney Mooney