Concerns raised over Congupna crossing sign

The owner of the Congupna General Store says drivers can't see over a road sign at a level crossing, which could cause a major accident.

A level crossing road sign at a major Congupna intersection presents a danger to traffic, the local store owner says.

Congupna General Store owner Carmel Ash said the placement of a sign on Katamatite-Shepparton Rd alerting drivers to the railway crossing, means traffic turning right from Old Grahamvale Rd cannot see vehicles entering from the Goulburn Valley Hwy.

‘‘Someone sitting in an average-sized car cannot see over the sign. Taking kids to school in the mornings — the traffic is quite busy,’’ Mrs Ash said.

New signage was placed at the crossing as part of a series of safety upgrades in October 2010.

Mrs Ash said she approached a foreman in charge of installing the new signs at the time.

‘‘I mentioned that the sign was too high — but he said it was regulation height,’’ she said.

She said residents have since complained to her about the sign.

‘‘It’s always surprised people, the height of it,’’ she said.

‘‘There have been minor accidents at night. Something should be done to prevent a major accident, instead of waiting for one to happen,’’ she said.

‘‘Just lowering the height would be easiest.’’

VicRoads regional director North Eastern Region Graham Freestone said he was not aware of any problems with the sign at Congupna.

‘‘VicRoads is not aware of the sign imposing on the sight distance at the intersection,’’ Mr Freestone said.

‘‘However, we will look into it and relocate the sign if necessary or request V/Line to change it.’’

He said VicRoads encouraged anyone concerned about sight distances, road signs or any other perceived hazard to phone the Benalla office on 57611888 or log an enquiry online via its webpage  www.vicroads.vic.gov.au

The sign at the Congupna level crossing which store owner Carmel Ash says obscures drivers’ view of traffic.