SCENIC Hill's safety ramp has not so safe in recent times.
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For several weeks there has been a fallen tree blocking the ramp about one third of the way up.
The hill is known to locals as a hot spot for accidents, especially in the wet, and is used extensively by logging and haulage trucks.
So what does a truck driver do in case of an emergency?
Run up the ramp into a significantly sized tree or continue out of control down the hill.
A spokes person for the Roads and Maritime Services (RMS) has stated the safety of all road users is their highest priority.
“Inspections of Bells Line of Road including at Lithgow are carried out every two days to ensure the road and vegetation is maintained in line with national guidelines,” the spokesperson said. “ Additional inspections are carried out after severe weather and immediately if issues are raised by the community.
The RMS also stated that the tree would be removed today.
The tree was brought to the attention by a community member over a week ago, but we will give the RMS credit where due.
The tree was removed from the ramp on January 7 and the safety in safety ramp has now been reinstated.
Road users are encouraged to report roadside hazards 24 hours a day by calling the Incident Reporting Line on 131 700.