Gocup Road roundabout design unveiled by state government

The design for a 50-metre roundabout was released yesterday, and while residents say it was not their preferred option, they're glad action is finally being taken.

It comes months after a woman, her unborn child and 10-year-old daughter died following a crash.

Tim Martin, co-founder of the Tumut River Brewing Company, and his staff have been the first on the scene multiple times at the intersection.

Tim Martin, co-founder of the Tumut River Brewing Company, and his staff have been the first on the scene multiple times at the intersection.

"You become pretty used it, but, obviously, it is something you should never have to get used to," he said. "For some people, it has a huge effect, especially for some of the younger staff."

Mr Martin said he was pleased to see the government prepared to spend money on a solution, but wished there was more community consultation.

There is an active local traffic group, Mr Martin added, who had made different suggestions to the problem.

"I am happy to see them just doing something," he said.

"But, I would have liked them listen to some local people. It also would have been great to see more pedestrian accommodations made for people on the river walk to make their way more easily to the main street."

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The roundabout is estimated to cost $10 to $15 million. Snowy Valleys mayor James Hayes said anything that improves safety was welcome, but the roundabout was not the community's preferred option.

"At least they acted now to do something," he said.

Paul Toole, Minister for Regional Transport and Roads, said work has progressed quickly since the announcement of a roundabout in October.

The plan was put forward as the Centre for Road Safety's preferred option to improve safety at the intersection.

"The concept design is now complete, showing the big picture view of what the improved intersection will look like," Mr Toole said. said.

"The new roundabout will improve safety and traffic flow and will be big enough to accommodate heavy vehicle movements."

Mr Toole said the design will be refined further in the new year after an environmental assessment, and utilities and property investigations are carried out.

Construction of the roundabout is expected to start late 2021 and will take about 10 months to build, with weather and approvals permitting.