Western Highway upgrades get bi-partisan backing

THE Federal Labor Government has allocated $1.1 billion to Western Highway upgrades.

Member for Ballarat and Minister for Infrastructure, Transport, Regional Development and Local Government Catherine King was in Melton last week to make the announcement.

The works will aim to deliver safer, more efficient travel for residents west of Melbourne.

The project includes capacity and safety works between Melton and Caroline Springs, upgrades worth $100 million at the Brewery Tap Road intersection at Warrenheip, and more.

About 86,000 people rely on the highway daily.

“We’re investing in the transport projects that matter most to Victorians… fixing our regional and suburban roads, and strengthening our busiest freeways… because we care about our cities, our suburbs and our regions,” Ms King said.

City of Ballarat mayor Cr Tracey Hargreaves said Brewery Tap road is one of the city’s busiest intersections.

“Improving access to and from the Western Freeway at Brewery Tap Road will provide safer and more efficient travel for residents, visitors, and businesses alike,” she said.

“With Ballarat’s population continuing to grow, this funding is vital to ensuring our transport network keeps pace with increasing demand. We look forward to working with all levels of government on delivering these essential upgrades.”

If successful at the Federal election later this year, the Coalition has also committed to fund the critical upgrades needed on the Western Highway.

Liberal Candidate for Ballarat, Paula Doran welcomed the funding announcement.