Thursday, 14 November 2019

Questions without notice and ministers statements

Ministers statements: Birregurra-Forrest–Colac-Lorne–Deepdene roads, Birregurra

Ms PULFORD
Download page

Ministers statements: Birregurra-Forrest–Colac-Lorne–Deepdene roads, Birregurra

Ms Tierney: Yes!

Ms PULFORD: an intersection well-known to Ms Tierney and no doubt to other members representing Western Victoria. It is a roundabout of some notoriety, and this project is all about improving safety at the intersection of Birregurra­Forrest Road, Colac-Lorne Road and Deepdene Road. There have been a number of crashes at this site in recent years. Indeed one of the very first things that I had the opportunity to do in this portfolio was to visit this intersection to announce the funding for a new roundabout. At the time, I noted that there had been seven crashes at the site over the preceding five years, including one tragic incident in which an individual lost their life.

The new roundabout will improve safety for drivers by helping to control and lower the speed of vehicles on approach to the intersection, while also reducing the risk of cross-traffic and rear-end crashes. In recent weeks crews have been working hard to establish the site compound, including clearing vegetation to pave the way for major construction. Of course proceeding that there was quite a long and involved process working with landowners on all adjacent properties.

This week we are commencing the first stage of bulk earthworks. These earthworks on all approaches will help to provide better sight distances, with more than 15 000 cubic metres of soil to be moved to help level the intersection. The 40-metre diameter roundabout itself will be constructed in sections, and a new asphalt surface will be laid to ensure the road pavement is strong and long-lasting. New kerb and channel will be installed, as well as new lighting infrastructure, line marking and signage. Works are expected to be completed by the middle of next year, and construction will pause between mid­December and mid-January to limit disruption to the many visitors who travel through the region for the busy summer holiday period.

The project is just another example of our government’s commitment to smoother and safer roads. Whether it is our record $425 million investment— (Time expired)
Back to the top