Major roundabout works along the Sturt Highway intersection at Barmera have left a former Riverland mayor without direct access to his property for more than a week.
Former Barmera Council mayor Brian Caddy has lived at his corner block for more than 50 years and was surprised to hear his driveway was completely obstructed last week while he was away.
His daughter discovered the barricaded lane, a large hole in the road and a string of flags directly across her father’s driveway when she went to check on his property.
No “local traffic” signs have been placed around the barricades, making it difficult for residents to understand how to navigate the site.
Since returning home, Mr Caddy was initially told the lane and driveway would be closed off for two to three days, but this has now extended to eight.
During this period, the Barmera resident’s private property has also been used as a parking site for a number of roadwork vehicles.
Mr Caddy says he is not concerned about the move but is frustrated he was not consulted prior to it happening.
Roadworks welcome, lack of courtesy not
The Riverland local said he welcomed the roadworks and roundabout going ahead but was frustrated by the lack of communication and consultation from the Department for Infrastructure and Transport.
“I saw plans for a large roundabout the size of the one at Hay when I was Mayor 28 years ago … I’m supportive of what’s going ahead now,” he said.
“Yet a neighbour half a kilometre away received communication in an email about 18 months ago.”
Mr Caddy says conversations with on-site managers and road crews have been helpful and have provided him with regular updates, but the silence from department heads has been deafening.
“I’m very supportive of the works going ahead … and the people on the ground … it’s just the lack of communication and courtesy from higher up,” he said.
The Department for Infrastructure and Transport has been contacted for comment.
