An artist’s impression of a planned on-ramp from Pyrmont to the Western Distributor motorway in central Sydney.Credit:Transport for NSW
The City of Sydney council argues the plans will increase congestion on Pyrmont streets by boosting capacity on ramps to and from the motorway,worsening amenity,safety and bus reliability on the inner-city suburb’s streets.
The council also argues that plans to slap a ban on an existing right-turn from an off-ramp onto Pyrmont Bridge Road will result in “significant rat-running” in the area by motorists.
Sydney lord mayor Clover Moore said the government’sown strategy for the Pyrmont peninsula proposed reduced traffic lanes,slower speeds and increased tree plantings,yet it now planned to destroy mature trees,expand motorway ramps and funnel vehicles onto local streets.
“Rather than planning for more driving,Pyrmont and Ultimo need planning that prioritises walking,cycling and public transport to reduce traffic congestion and pollution,” she said.
“Funnelling more motorway traffic into our local streets will put our community at risk. The impacts will also hinder the NSW government’s ability to achieve its visions and growth aspirations for Pyrmont.”
Pyrmont is already one of Australia’s most populated suburbs.Credit:Steven Siewert
Moore has written to the Metropolitan Roads Minister Natalie Ward asking her to ensure Transport for NSW reconsiders its plan for the Western Distributor.