Bypass design work to begin within weeks

THE Andrews Labor Government has secured an early works agreement that paves the way for major construction to start in September.

Premier Daniel Andrews and Bellarine MP Lisa Neville visited the site of the new bypass last week to get a first-hand look at how this project will benefit the growing Drysdale and Bellarine communities.

Mr Andrews said construction company Decmil would begin design work within weeks. He said a detailed archaeological excavation would identify areas of cultural significance and VicRoads would work closely with traditional owners to manage any discoveries.

“This project has been talked about for more than 40 years, now we’re getting on and delivering it,” Mr Andrews said.

“The new bypass will upgrade the local roads people rely on, reduce congestion in Drysdale, boost safety and slash travel times along the Bellarine Peninsula.”

The $117 million project will build a new bypass to improve safety and ease congestion through the heart of Drysdale by giving trucks and drivers on the Bellarine Peninsula an alternative and more efficient route.

The bypass from Jetty Road to north of Whitcombes Road will help reduce traffic congestion through town by around 40 per cent and provide travellers on the Bellarine with a much smoother and more reliable journey.

It will also provide a better connection between schools, sporting precincts and growing residential communities thanks to the construction of a sixkilometre shared user path and pedestrian and bicycle underpass at Peninsula Drive.

As part of the project, traffic lights will be installed at the intersection of Grubb Road and Portarlington Road.

These lights will replace the current roundabout, significantly improving traffic flow and safety for pedestrians and cyclists.

Construction is expected to be completed in mid-2020.

“The Drysdale Bypass will provide major benefits for the Bellarine – delivering a vital link to schools, growing communities and boosting the local economy,” Ms Neville said.