Rozelle Interchange Designed to Boost WestConnex Value, Ex-Executives Claim

Former NSW roads executives have alleged that thecongestion, profit, ex, planRozelle Interchange in Sydney was deliberately designed to increase traffic congestion in order to maximize the value of the WestConnex motorway scheme before its sale to toll road operator Transurban. The startling claim emerged during a NSW parliamentary inquiry investigating the impact of the controversial project on Sydney's inner west.

Why this matters: This alleged manipulation of traffic congestion has significant implications for the transparency and accountability of government infrastructure projects. It also raises concerns about the prioritization of profits over public welfare and the potential for similar practices in other large-scale projects.

According to the inquiry, the NSW government was aware as early as 2014 that the Rozelle Interchange design would lead to significant traffic jams on the Anzac Bridge and surrounding local streets. However, the government reportedly proceeded with the congestion, profit, ex flawed design in a bid to boost profits from the eventual sale of WestConnex to Transurban, which is headquartered in Docklands, Australia.

Motorists using Victoria Road and other key routes in the area have experienced major delays and congestion since the opening of the Rozelle Interchange. The inquiry heard that this outcome was not only foreseeable but deliberately engineered to increase the value of WestConnex prior to its sale.

The WestConnex scheme, which includes the Rozelle Interchange, has faced intense scrutiny and criticism since its inception. Community groups and local residents have raised concerns about the project's impact on traffic, air quality, and the urban fabric of inner Sydney.

The parliamentary inquiry is ongoing, with further hearings scheduled in the coming weeks. The explosive allegations from former roads executives have added a new dimension to the long-running controversy surrounding WestConnex and the Rozelle Interchange. As the inquiry delves deeper into the project's planning and execution, the NSW government faces mounting questions about its handling of one of Australia's largest transport infrastructure projects.

Key Takeaways

• Former NSW roads execs claim Rozelle Interchange was designed to increase traffic congestion.
• This was allegedly done to maximize WestConnex's value before its sale to Transurban.
• Motorists have experienced major delays and congestion since the interchange opened.
• Parliamentary inquiry is ongoing, with further hearings scheduled to investigate the matter.