GREAT OCEAN ROAD CLOSURES

The magnificent stretch of coast between Coalcliff and Clifton, plagued by continual closures, may be more “gatekeeper” than “gateway” for tourists. Local businesses are concerned that the road has been closed about six times since December and feel that this will destroy local tourism.
Some businesses have reported their worst-ever trading days over Easter. The Stanwell Park Kiosk said that this was the quietest weekend they have ever had, even in winter.
The RTA policy means the road will be closed for about 15 days a year, or one in every 24, but Tourism Wollongong Manager, Greg Binskin, denied it would impact on tourism. “I think most people are accepting when roads are closed due to safety issues. It is the business community that is not accepting it” he said.

Residents and businesses are working together with the RTA to find a solution, but the RTA is unwilling to review the policy of closing the road after 35mm of rain, even if this was changed as an interim measure until a more final solution has been worked out.
(taken from Illawarra Mercury 22.4.03)