Wagga’s medical precinct is set for an overhaul with the Murrumbidgee Local Health District (MLHD) giving Roads and Maritime Services (RMS) the green light to start the project. 

The proposed three-sequence traffic signals ignited a “light fight” last November amid fears it would clog one of the city’s major arterial roads. 

Since the controversial proposal was first floated, former mayor Lindsay Vidler has vehemently expressed his disapproval. 

He fears the lights will create gridlock traffic pains and put a “handbrake” on Wagga’s economic growth. 

“It seems like there’s been literally no community consultation on this decision whatsoever,” he told The Daily Advertiser. 

“This is a road that is already buckling under congestion and they’re going to put another set of lights in and slow it down even more.

“Spare a thought for the poor little coffee shop on the corner which will be inundated with car fumes.” 

A professional driver has rallied behind Mr Vidler’s comments, pleading with the Murrumbidgee Local Health District and Wagga City Council to “use common sense”. 

Peter Dolden claims he drives approximately 250 kilometers around Wagga every day and knows the Brookong Avenue intersection all too well. 

“It is very rare to see traffic waiting to turn north from Brooking Street whilst those turning south have regular breaks in the traffic from the Edward Street lights,” he said.

“Those proposing the lights need to go and watch for 15 minutes – providing they use common sense.

“We do not need these traffic lights.”

Cindy Baker, who lives in Mount Austin and travels along Docker Street everyday, shared the same concerns as the former politician and the driver. 

“No matter how you look at it, it will slow traffic down,” she said. 

“There’s going to be a lot of people upset with this decision.

“It seems more like people were told what was happening, rather than asked what they want.”

MLHD several months ago defended the planned works, claiming they will improve car and public transport access from Edward Street, enhance safety and complement the ongoing improvements to the campus.