By JOHN VAN KLAVEREN
Inceased truck traffic is “life-changing” for residents of Geelong’s McKillop St, according to a retired professional couple who have lived in the area for 62 years.
Pam and Geoff McGarigle have responded to City Hall requests for feedback on its controversial trial of new city truck routes, protesting the ban on trucks using Malop and Mercer Sts.
The McGarigles said they had always coped with general traffic levels, which had changed “dramatically” following the start of the trial.
“Now on a daily basis, particularly early morning, midday and late afternoon, there’s a constant stream of trucks ranging from small, double, very large, long transports, tankers and drivers in trucks under instruction.”
The couple said the noise from air brakes, inadequately maintained “screeching” brakes, revving engines as trucks race through traffic lights and rattling empty trailers was “intolerable”.
“Our house literally vibrates at times. There is literally no letup in truck noise.
“We are not talking about general traffic noise but truck after truck after truck.
“The constant noise has destroyed our peace. Even though we double glazed our bedroom windows we have been forced to move to another bedroom to the back of our house.”
Mr and Mrs McGarigle said the increase in truck traffic also prompted safety concerns, with trucks speeding to catch a green light at the Ormond Rd intersection.
They said trucks also used extra lanes to make turns, cutting off cars.
Badly maintained drainage meant water often spread across McKillop St on rainy days, with trucks creating a “massive water wash”, they said.
The Independent reported last week residents of the eastern end of McKillop st voicing concerns the trial diverted trucks into their neighbourhood traffic area.
