The project includes significant consultation with the community. We want to develop a solution that balances the needs of road users with community expectations.
We understand the significance of this road to the community and have been consulting with community representatives since 2019. A community and stakeholder working group has informed the process and helped to identify treatments that are supported by the wider community.
Together, we’re working towards outcomes that will make Caves Road safer for everyone.
As development progresses, we will continue to meet with community and key stakeholders who participated in the full day workshop in May 2019. This working group is a key focus of our engagement program that will influence a community-based and owned safety improvement strategy.
Some of the key priorities we agreed to progress at the workshop include:
- Working with the Local Governments to review speed zones on adjoining roads for consistency
- Investigating options for WiFi and new technologies to enhance the tourism experience
- Investigating driveway (crossover) upgrades
- Completing maintenance work and clearing of drains and culverts, and repairs to concrete headwalls (ie retaining walls for drains)
- Determining how we can link the safety improvement strategy to future planning.
Engagement background
Two community reference groups were established based on local government boundaries - the Southern CRG (Shire of Augusta Margaret River) and the Northern CRG (City of Busselton). Initial CRG meetings were held on 17 and 18 September, and 26 and 27 November 2018.
In May 2019, a full day workshop was held that combined both groups and other stakeholders to develop a better joint understanding of Caves Road. The workshop comprised:
- Presentations from stakeholders including Main Roads, City of Busselton, Department of Biodiversity, Conservation and Attractions, WA Police, Department of Fire and Emergency Services, Margaret River Busselton Tourism Association, Margaret Wine Association and Shire of Augusta Margaret River.
- Discussion of possible treatments to improve safety.
- Agreement about common themes for further project development work.
