Premier still labels four lanes 'pie in the sky'

Time for State Government to stop being stubborn and negative.

The decision by the Launceston City Council in support of the progressive upgrading of the Midland Highway to a dual carriageway is warmly welcomed.

This proactive decision by the Council to initiate discussions with the five other local government councils which border the Midland Highway illustrates how important upgrading this major link is.

I am absolutely astonished that David Bartlett has labelled upgrading the road to four lanes as "pie in the sky". Liberal and Labor governments - State and Federal - have given strong support over the last 20 or so years to the progressive upgrade of the Bass Highway and for Mr Bartlett to take the approach that the Midland Highway does not need upgrading to four lanes beggars belief.

What has Labor got against better roads?

It is wonderful that local government has joined the Tasmanian Liberals in supporting the Midland upgrade, and we look forward to hearing statements of support from the other councils to mirror that of the Launceston City Council. Perhaps then the Bartlett government might finally put aside its stubborn opposition to a vision which all travelling Tasmanians are keen to embrace.

What the Liberals have demonstrated is leadership, and a vision for a safer, more efficient Midland Highway into the future.