The transport minister made a safety promise. Four days later, it was torn apart
Transport bureaucrats circulated secret plans to slash improved safety measures at a major Sydney intersection four days after the then-minister gave public assurances that no such cuts would be made, casting aside expansive upgrades promised as a condition of WestConnex four years ago.
An internal presentation shared on November 14 laid bare plans to remove or weaken at least 14 of the 33 featured upgrades for Sydney Park Junction, at the intersection of St Peters, Erskineville and Alexandria, despite then-transport minister Jo Haylen's office confirming on November 10 that the upgrades would go ahead as promised in 2021 after Transport for NSW's first attempt to slash upgrades in August.
The new tranche of documents, obtained by the Herald, reveal the latest proposed cuts to Sydney Park Junction, including the removal of a pedestrian and bicycle crossing once touted as a centrepiece of the upgrades. This would represent another broken promise for an inner-city community seeking safer active transport links.
An extended cycleway and new bus shelter are among the other upgrades on the chopping block, while plans for widened footpaths and raised pedestrian crossings have also been toppled as a proposal for increased car parking on Sydney Park Road is preferred.
Transport for NSW would not provide further project details when asked by the Herald, saying that investigations and designs for the junction, including active transport links promised in 2021, were not finalised and were subject to further consultation.
'Transport will work with the community and council to deliver outcomes that align with community expectations, and for the safety of all road users,' a spokesperson said.
Sydney Lord Mayor Clover Moore, who has played a key role in the installation of inner-city active transport links, said the state government 'can't turn its back' on the upgrades, originally due for completion in mid-2024.
'I share the community's real concerns about a significant reduction in scope in the most recent plans that Transport for NSW released and ongoing delays to the Sydney Park Junction project,' Moore said.
Try Our AI Features
Explore what Daily8 AI can do for you:
Comments
No comments yet...
Related Articles
The Advertiser
a day ago
- The Advertiser
Two years on, a father's pain and plea: fix the 'death trap' that killed my son
TWO years. 10 lives. Immeasurable grief. Adam Bray's voice breaks as he remembers his 29-year-old son Zach, one of many lives cut short on the night of June 11, 2023, when a bus full of wedding guests, driven by Brett Button, rolled at a roundabout near Greta in the Hunter Valley. Ten people were killed and 25 others injured. Mr Bray is suing Transport for NSW (TFNSW) in the Supreme Court over an alleged breach of duty of care by the state government agency. It's a gut-wrenching chapter that he, and so many families, are desperate to close. "I'm not trying to be a hero with this statement, but why is it on me and others, the few others who are brave enough or strong enough, so that their loved ones didn't die in vain, and this doesn't happen to anyone else?" Mr Bray said. "Why is it on us? I'm not the government. I'm not the premier. I'm not the transport minister. I'm not the head of Transport for NSW. "I'm just a poor dad who has lost his son." In 2024, Button, then 59, was sentenced to 32 years behind bars with a non-parole period of 24 years for his role in the crash. He pleaded guilty to 10 counts of dangerous driving occasioning death, nine counts of causing grievous bodily harm, and 16 counts of driving furiously causing bodily harm. Button's driving was impaired by the opioid prescription painkillers he was dependent on and had taken too much of, he was driving too fast to navigate the roundabout, showing off, and ignoring pleas from passengers to slow down and stop being "crazy" before tragedy struck. Nadene and Kyah McBride, Andrew and Lynan Scott, Kane Symons, Rebecca Mullen, Darcy Bulman, Zach Bray, Tori Cowburn and Angus Craig lost their lives. Nothing will bring their loved ones back. But two years on from the crash, Mr Bray's request is simple: fix the "death trap". "This goes beyond the legal system and liabilities; this is about people's lives," he said. "The reality is, this death trap is still a death trap. "We'll never get closure, we're scarred for life from this, but it enables us to move on, it closes all these matters." A statement of claim that was filed raised questions about the elliptical shape of the roundabout, a lack of warning signs for buses and trucks to slow down, vegetation, and the placement of the metal guard rail. The class action has been brought under the state's Civil Liability Act in the NSW Supreme Court on behalf of all those affected by the crash. That includes victims' families, survivors and first responders. Mr Bray said he started the class action for all the people who still can't get out of bed in the morning, for those who have physical and psychological injuries and will need ongoing care. "The fact is, every time I see the news and I see a vehicle accident, or I see a bus incident, it's a haunting reminder of what we've all gone through," he said. "Yes, it's the Opposition who were in power when this death trap was designed, constructed and hasn't been maintained all these years, but the reality is Chris [Minns] is the Premier, there's a transport minister who the portfolio of Transport for NSW resides under, so get out from behind your desk and go and tell them to fix it. "The frustration and aggravation that's being caused by an apathetic government is quite disgusting to be honest ... do I want to have to put my armour on to battle this one through?" NSW Minister for Roads and Regional Transport Jenny Aitchison and NSW Premier Chris Minns did not respond to specific questions from the Newcastle Herald about fixing alleged issues at the roundabout. Mr Minns said his thoughts are with the families, survivors and Hunter community who "continue to carry the pain of that devastating night". "I can only imagine the heartbreak of Mr Bray," he said. "I note the crash has been the subject of multiple investigations, some of which are ongoing. The driver was convicted and sentenced to 32 years in prison in September last year. "I understand there are matters currently before the court in relation to this, and therefore I am not able to offer any further comments at this stage." Ms Aitchison acknowledged the bus crash was a devastating event that touched families and friends across Australia, and particularly in the Hunter. "This anniversary brings fresh waves of grief, and we express our sadness at the ongoing sorrow," she said. "Having met with a number of the families involved, I know how difficult days like this are for them. I stand with them. "I want to pay tribute to the first responders, traffic controllers and health workers who worked so hard to save lives where they could." Ms Aitchison said she understands community members will want to visit the crash site on Wine Country Drive to pay their respects on the anniversary, and asked road users to be mindful and respectful during a sensitive time. Cessnock mayor Dan Watton said the devastating crash that claimed ten lives will forever leave an imprint on the community, and its anniversary is a time to pause and remember. "As we mark the second anniversary of the Greta bus crash, feelings of grief and sadness permeate to the surface as we reflect on lives lost and forever impacted by this tragedy," he said. "Council's memorial garden at Branxton offers a quiet, safe space for those wishing to pay their respects." Singleton mayor Sue Moore said, like many others, she travels through the roundabout regularly. "Enjoying the beauty of the flower beds for a few seconds before drawing on the senseless loss of loved ones," she said. "My thoughts remain with family and friends now and always." For many of the families, the first responders and the survivors, today is a day that will forever be marred with grief. Mr Bray will spend it at Mona Vale Cemetery, at the memorial to his son. TWO years. 10 lives. Immeasurable grief. Adam Bray's voice breaks as he remembers his 29-year-old son Zach, one of many lives cut short on the night of June 11, 2023, when a bus full of wedding guests, driven by Brett Button, rolled at a roundabout near Greta in the Hunter Valley. Ten people were killed and 25 others injured. Mr Bray is suing Transport for NSW (TFNSW) in the Supreme Court over an alleged breach of duty of care by the state government agency. It's a gut-wrenching chapter that he, and so many families, are desperate to close. "I'm not trying to be a hero with this statement, but why is it on me and others, the few others who are brave enough or strong enough, so that their loved ones didn't die in vain, and this doesn't happen to anyone else?" Mr Bray said. "Why is it on us? I'm not the government. I'm not the premier. I'm not the transport minister. I'm not the head of Transport for NSW. "I'm just a poor dad who has lost his son." In 2024, Button, then 59, was sentenced to 32 years behind bars with a non-parole period of 24 years for his role in the crash. He pleaded guilty to 10 counts of dangerous driving occasioning death, nine counts of causing grievous bodily harm, and 16 counts of driving furiously causing bodily harm. Button's driving was impaired by the opioid prescription painkillers he was dependent on and had taken too much of, he was driving too fast to navigate the roundabout, showing off, and ignoring pleas from passengers to slow down and stop being "crazy" before tragedy struck. Nadene and Kyah McBride, Andrew and Lynan Scott, Kane Symons, Rebecca Mullen, Darcy Bulman, Zach Bray, Tori Cowburn and Angus Craig lost their lives. Nothing will bring their loved ones back. But two years on from the crash, Mr Bray's request is simple: fix the "death trap". "This goes beyond the legal system and liabilities; this is about people's lives," he said. "The reality is, this death trap is still a death trap. "We'll never get closure, we're scarred for life from this, but it enables us to move on, it closes all these matters." A statement of claim that was filed raised questions about the elliptical shape of the roundabout, a lack of warning signs for buses and trucks to slow down, vegetation, and the placement of the metal guard rail. The class action has been brought under the state's Civil Liability Act in the NSW Supreme Court on behalf of all those affected by the crash. That includes victims' families, survivors and first responders. Mr Bray said he started the class action for all the people who still can't get out of bed in the morning, for those who have physical and psychological injuries and will need ongoing care. "The fact is, every time I see the news and I see a vehicle accident, or I see a bus incident, it's a haunting reminder of what we've all gone through," he said. "Yes, it's the Opposition who were in power when this death trap was designed, constructed and hasn't been maintained all these years, but the reality is Chris [Minns] is the Premier, there's a transport minister who the portfolio of Transport for NSW resides under, so get out from behind your desk and go and tell them to fix it. "The frustration and aggravation that's being caused by an apathetic government is quite disgusting to be honest ... do I want to have to put my armour on to battle this one through?" NSW Minister for Roads and Regional Transport Jenny Aitchison and NSW Premier Chris Minns did not respond to specific questions from the Newcastle Herald about fixing alleged issues at the roundabout. Mr Minns said his thoughts are with the families, survivors and Hunter community who "continue to carry the pain of that devastating night". "I can only imagine the heartbreak of Mr Bray," he said. "I note the crash has been the subject of multiple investigations, some of which are ongoing. The driver was convicted and sentenced to 32 years in prison in September last year. "I understand there are matters currently before the court in relation to this, and therefore I am not able to offer any further comments at this stage." Ms Aitchison acknowledged the bus crash was a devastating event that touched families and friends across Australia, and particularly in the Hunter. "This anniversary brings fresh waves of grief, and we express our sadness at the ongoing sorrow," she said. "Having met with a number of the families involved, I know how difficult days like this are for them. I stand with them. "I want to pay tribute to the first responders, traffic controllers and health workers who worked so hard to save lives where they could." Ms Aitchison said she understands community members will want to visit the crash site on Wine Country Drive to pay their respects on the anniversary, and asked road users to be mindful and respectful during a sensitive time. Cessnock mayor Dan Watton said the devastating crash that claimed ten lives will forever leave an imprint on the community, and its anniversary is a time to pause and remember. "As we mark the second anniversary of the Greta bus crash, feelings of grief and sadness permeate to the surface as we reflect on lives lost and forever impacted by this tragedy," he said. "Council's memorial garden at Branxton offers a quiet, safe space for those wishing to pay their respects." Singleton mayor Sue Moore said, like many others, she travels through the roundabout regularly. "Enjoying the beauty of the flower beds for a few seconds before drawing on the senseless loss of loved ones," she said. "My thoughts remain with family and friends now and always." For many of the families, the first responders and the survivors, today is a day that will forever be marred with grief. Mr Bray will spend it at Mona Vale Cemetery, at the memorial to his son. TWO years. 10 lives. Immeasurable grief. Adam Bray's voice breaks as he remembers his 29-year-old son Zach, one of many lives cut short on the night of June 11, 2023, when a bus full of wedding guests, driven by Brett Button, rolled at a roundabout near Greta in the Hunter Valley. Ten people were killed and 25 others injured. Mr Bray is suing Transport for NSW (TFNSW) in the Supreme Court over an alleged breach of duty of care by the state government agency. It's a gut-wrenching chapter that he, and so many families, are desperate to close. "I'm not trying to be a hero with this statement, but why is it on me and others, the few others who are brave enough or strong enough, so that their loved ones didn't die in vain, and this doesn't happen to anyone else?" Mr Bray said. "Why is it on us? I'm not the government. I'm not the premier. I'm not the transport minister. I'm not the head of Transport for NSW. "I'm just a poor dad who has lost his son." In 2024, Button, then 59, was sentenced to 32 years behind bars with a non-parole period of 24 years for his role in the crash. He pleaded guilty to 10 counts of dangerous driving occasioning death, nine counts of causing grievous bodily harm, and 16 counts of driving furiously causing bodily harm. Button's driving was impaired by the opioid prescription painkillers he was dependent on and had taken too much of, he was driving too fast to navigate the roundabout, showing off, and ignoring pleas from passengers to slow down and stop being "crazy" before tragedy struck. Nadene and Kyah McBride, Andrew and Lynan Scott, Kane Symons, Rebecca Mullen, Darcy Bulman, Zach Bray, Tori Cowburn and Angus Craig lost their lives. Nothing will bring their loved ones back. But two years on from the crash, Mr Bray's request is simple: fix the "death trap". "This goes beyond the legal system and liabilities; this is about people's lives," he said. "The reality is, this death trap is still a death trap. "We'll never get closure, we're scarred for life from this, but it enables us to move on, it closes all these matters." A statement of claim that was filed raised questions about the elliptical shape of the roundabout, a lack of warning signs for buses and trucks to slow down, vegetation, and the placement of the metal guard rail. The class action has been brought under the state's Civil Liability Act in the NSW Supreme Court on behalf of all those affected by the crash. That includes victims' families, survivors and first responders. Mr Bray said he started the class action for all the people who still can't get out of bed in the morning, for those who have physical and psychological injuries and will need ongoing care. "The fact is, every time I see the news and I see a vehicle accident, or I see a bus incident, it's a haunting reminder of what we've all gone through," he said. "Yes, it's the Opposition who were in power when this death trap was designed, constructed and hasn't been maintained all these years, but the reality is Chris [Minns] is the Premier, there's a transport minister who the portfolio of Transport for NSW resides under, so get out from behind your desk and go and tell them to fix it. "The frustration and aggravation that's being caused by an apathetic government is quite disgusting to be honest ... do I want to have to put my armour on to battle this one through?" NSW Minister for Roads and Regional Transport Jenny Aitchison and NSW Premier Chris Minns did not respond to specific questions from the Newcastle Herald about fixing alleged issues at the roundabout. Mr Minns said his thoughts are with the families, survivors and Hunter community who "continue to carry the pain of that devastating night". "I can only imagine the heartbreak of Mr Bray," he said. "I note the crash has been the subject of multiple investigations, some of which are ongoing. The driver was convicted and sentenced to 32 years in prison in September last year. "I understand there are matters currently before the court in relation to this, and therefore I am not able to offer any further comments at this stage." Ms Aitchison acknowledged the bus crash was a devastating event that touched families and friends across Australia, and particularly in the Hunter. "This anniversary brings fresh waves of grief, and we express our sadness at the ongoing sorrow," she said. "Having met with a number of the families involved, I know how difficult days like this are for them. I stand with them. "I want to pay tribute to the first responders, traffic controllers and health workers who worked so hard to save lives where they could." Ms Aitchison said she understands community members will want to visit the crash site on Wine Country Drive to pay their respects on the anniversary, and asked road users to be mindful and respectful during a sensitive time. Cessnock mayor Dan Watton said the devastating crash that claimed ten lives will forever leave an imprint on the community, and its anniversary is a time to pause and remember. "As we mark the second anniversary of the Greta bus crash, feelings of grief and sadness permeate to the surface as we reflect on lives lost and forever impacted by this tragedy," he said. "Council's memorial garden at Branxton offers a quiet, safe space for those wishing to pay their respects." Singleton mayor Sue Moore said, like many others, she travels through the roundabout regularly. "Enjoying the beauty of the flower beds for a few seconds before drawing on the senseless loss of loved ones," she said. "My thoughts remain with family and friends now and always." For many of the families, the first responders and the survivors, today is a day that will forever be marred with grief. Mr Bray will spend it at Mona Vale Cemetery, at the memorial to his son. TWO years. 10 lives. Immeasurable grief. Adam Bray's voice breaks as he remembers his 29-year-old son Zach, one of many lives cut short on the night of June 11, 2023, when a bus full of wedding guests, driven by Brett Button, rolled at a roundabout near Greta in the Hunter Valley. Ten people were killed and 25 others injured. Mr Bray is suing Transport for NSW (TFNSW) in the Supreme Court over an alleged breach of duty of care by the state government agency. It's a gut-wrenching chapter that he, and so many families, are desperate to close. "I'm not trying to be a hero with this statement, but why is it on me and others, the few others who are brave enough or strong enough, so that their loved ones didn't die in vain, and this doesn't happen to anyone else?" Mr Bray said. "Why is it on us? I'm not the government. I'm not the premier. I'm not the transport minister. I'm not the head of Transport for NSW. "I'm just a poor dad who has lost his son." In 2024, Button, then 59, was sentenced to 32 years behind bars with a non-parole period of 24 years for his role in the crash. He pleaded guilty to 10 counts of dangerous driving occasioning death, nine counts of causing grievous bodily harm, and 16 counts of driving furiously causing bodily harm. Button's driving was impaired by the opioid prescription painkillers he was dependent on and had taken too much of, he was driving too fast to navigate the roundabout, showing off, and ignoring pleas from passengers to slow down and stop being "crazy" before tragedy struck. Nadene and Kyah McBride, Andrew and Lynan Scott, Kane Symons, Rebecca Mullen, Darcy Bulman, Zach Bray, Tori Cowburn and Angus Craig lost their lives. Nothing will bring their loved ones back. But two years on from the crash, Mr Bray's request is simple: fix the "death trap". "This goes beyond the legal system and liabilities; this is about people's lives," he said. "The reality is, this death trap is still a death trap. "We'll never get closure, we're scarred for life from this, but it enables us to move on, it closes all these matters." A statement of claim that was filed raised questions about the elliptical shape of the roundabout, a lack of warning signs for buses and trucks to slow down, vegetation, and the placement of the metal guard rail. The class action has been brought under the state's Civil Liability Act in the NSW Supreme Court on behalf of all those affected by the crash. That includes victims' families, survivors and first responders. Mr Bray said he started the class action for all the people who still can't get out of bed in the morning, for those who have physical and psychological injuries and will need ongoing care. "The fact is, every time I see the news and I see a vehicle accident, or I see a bus incident, it's a haunting reminder of what we've all gone through," he said. "Yes, it's the Opposition who were in power when this death trap was designed, constructed and hasn't been maintained all these years, but the reality is Chris [Minns] is the Premier, there's a transport minister who the portfolio of Transport for NSW resides under, so get out from behind your desk and go and tell them to fix it. "The frustration and aggravation that's being caused by an apathetic government is quite disgusting to be honest ... do I want to have to put my armour on to battle this one through?" NSW Minister for Roads and Regional Transport Jenny Aitchison and NSW Premier Chris Minns did not respond to specific questions from the Newcastle Herald about fixing alleged issues at the roundabout. Mr Minns said his thoughts are with the families, survivors and Hunter community who "continue to carry the pain of that devastating night". "I can only imagine the heartbreak of Mr Bray," he said. "I note the crash has been the subject of multiple investigations, some of which are ongoing. The driver was convicted and sentenced to 32 years in prison in September last year. "I understand there are matters currently before the court in relation to this, and therefore I am not able to offer any further comments at this stage." Ms Aitchison acknowledged the bus crash was a devastating event that touched families and friends across Australia, and particularly in the Hunter. "This anniversary brings fresh waves of grief, and we express our sadness at the ongoing sorrow," she said. "Having met with a number of the families involved, I know how difficult days like this are for them. I stand with them. "I want to pay tribute to the first responders, traffic controllers and health workers who worked so hard to save lives where they could." Ms Aitchison said she understands community members will want to visit the crash site on Wine Country Drive to pay their respects on the anniversary, and asked road users to be mindful and respectful during a sensitive time. Cessnock mayor Dan Watton said the devastating crash that claimed ten lives will forever leave an imprint on the community, and its anniversary is a time to pause and remember. "As we mark the second anniversary of the Greta bus crash, feelings of grief and sadness permeate to the surface as we reflect on lives lost and forever impacted by this tragedy," he said. "Council's memorial garden at Branxton offers a quiet, safe space for those wishing to pay their respects." Singleton mayor Sue Moore said, like many others, she travels through the roundabout regularly. "Enjoying the beauty of the flower beds for a few seconds before drawing on the senseless loss of loved ones," she said. "My thoughts remain with family and friends now and always." For many of the families, the first responders and the survivors, today is a day that will forever be marred with grief. Mr Bray will spend it at Mona Vale Cemetery, at the memorial to his son.
The Age
2 days ago
- The Age
The dawning of an elephantine era
'We Herald letter writers may be fond of clichés and over-used metaphors but, at the end of the day, when all is said and done, we're (literally) on the same page in our desire to maintain anonymity for the 'elephant in the room' (C8) because any public vote would likely proffer Trunky McTrunkface,' offers the always erudite Col Burns of Lugarno. 'No need to cry crocodile tears Dawn Hope, your curiosity, while it won't kill the cat, is a red herring, and you may be on a wild goose chase trying to find out the name of that elephant,' adds Mary Carde of Parrearra (Qld). 'I've heard it straight from the horse's mouth, who put that very same question to the fly on the wall; apparently while they're all having a whale of a time, nobody knows who's who in the zoo.' For Pasquale Vartuli of Wahroonga, Dawn's search has thrown up another mythical poseur: 'Apropos the name of the elephant in the room, who was 'Larry Dooley' often referred to by rugby league commentator Frank Hyde?' Col Mitty of Warrawee and his mates know how to get the lead out: 'I've been reminded of the moment in my pre-teens when a friend aimed his air rifle (C8) at another friend and struck the target between the eyes. The pellet slid under his skin stopping just under one eye. I was shocked, the shooter was speechless and the target screamed. I don't believe the police were informed.' 'The passing of John Shakespeare marks the end of a short but illustrious life of a highly talented cartoonist,' writes Allan Gibson of Cherrybrook. 'Many of his Fairfax/Nine colleagues will hold special memories with those who left this masthead receiving a caricature of themselves. Away from the newsroom, but looming large over Granny's shoulder, one George Manojlovic of Mangerton was named in August 2016 as Column 8's most prodigious contributor. His prize was a caricature of himself depicted with the Column 8 doctorate drawn by John Shakespeare. For the record, George had 68 entries. He was closely followed by Paul Hunt of Engadine (66), Jim Dewar of North Gosford (65) and yours truly (59).'
Sydney Morning Herald
2 days ago
- Sydney Morning Herald
The dawning of an elephantine era
'We Herald letter writers may be fond of clichés and over-used metaphors but, at the end of the day, when all is said and done, we're (literally) on the same page in our desire to maintain anonymity for the 'elephant in the room' (C8) because any public vote would likely proffer Trunky McTrunkface,' offers the always erudite Col Burns of Lugarno. 'No need to cry crocodile tears Dawn Hope, your curiosity, while it won't kill the cat, is a red herring, and you may be on a wild goose chase trying to find out the name of that elephant,' adds Mary Carde of Parrearra (Qld). 'I've heard it straight from the horse's mouth, who put that very same question to the fly on the wall; apparently while they're all having a whale of a time, nobody knows who's who in the zoo.' For Pasquale Vartuli of Wahroonga, Dawn's search has thrown up another mythical poseur: 'Apropos the name of the elephant in the room, who was 'Larry Dooley' often referred to by rugby league commentator Frank Hyde?' Col Mitty of Warrawee and his mates know how to get the lead out: 'I've been reminded of the moment in my pre-teens when a friend aimed his air rifle (C8) at another friend and struck the target between the eyes. The pellet slid under his skin stopping just under one eye. I was shocked, the shooter was speechless and the target screamed. I don't believe the police were informed.' 'The passing of John Shakespeare marks the end of a short but illustrious life of a highly talented cartoonist,' writes Allan Gibson of Cherrybrook. 'Many of his Fairfax/Nine colleagues will hold special memories with those who left this masthead receiving a caricature of themselves. Away from the newsroom, but looming large over Granny's shoulder, one George Manojlovic of Mangerton was named in August 2016 as Column 8's most prodigious contributor. His prize was a caricature of himself depicted with the Column 8 doctorate drawn by John Shakespeare. For the record, George had 68 entries. He was closely followed by Paul Hunt of Engadine (66), Jim Dewar of North Gosford (65) and yours truly (59).'
