Labor's botched West Gate Tunnel project, which is at least three years behind schedule and more than $5.8 billion over budget, is now causing traffic chaos around Melbourne's container precincts.
The congestion not only impacts local residents, but slows down freight routes, including along Footscray Road, leading into the busiest time of the year.
Container Transport Alliance Australia (CTAA) has today said: "…if the road congestion experienced today continues, then trade through the Port of Melbourne will be negatively impacted to a large degree in what is traditionally its most busy period of operations."
Despite the Labor Government providing assurances to the CTAA and freight operators that traffic diversions will be put in place, this situation could have been avoided if the project was managed properly and not years behind schedule.
Shadow Minister for Ports and Freight, Roma Britnell, said: "We are heading into the busiest time of the year, yet once again Victorians are paying for the Labor Government's mismanagement.
"Labor must take responsibility for a project that is years overdue, billions over budget, and now causing ongoing delays for Melbourne's vital freight routes.
"It's critical that this project is completed as soon as possible so as to minimise disruption to the operations at the Port of Melbourne and the flow-on effect for business and consumers."
