The fix for Bellarine’s ‘summer squeeze’ as major roadworks wrap up in Connewarre

DRIVERS traveling between Geelong and the Bellarine Peninsula now face a revamped commute following the completion of major safety works at a busy Connewarre intersection.

The junction of Barwon Heads, Blackrock and Staceys roads has been transformed with a new roundabout designed to handle the 10,000 vehicles that flood the route daily during peak summer periods.

Bellarine MP Alison Marchant said the project would simplify travel through the busy stretch of road.

“This is a great outcome for the Bellarine community, making this busy intersection safer and easier to navigate every day,” she said.

The upgrade includes new safety barriers and a roundabout designed to improve sight lines.

Traffic on Barwon Heads Road has increased as suburbs such as Armstrong Creek and Marshall expand, with heavy vehicles now making up about 10 per cent of the daily traffic flow.

The project addresses a significant spike in traffic caused by the rapid expansion of neighbouring Armstrong Creek and Marshall, which has brought around 1,000 heavy vehicles to the stretch each day.

To manage the flow, the state government has installed safety barriers and introduced a permanent 80km/h speed limit through the intersection.

The works also include dedicated turning lanes for Barwon Heads Airport and relocated bus stops with new parking bays to help with school drop-offs.

Cyclists and pedestrians have been factored into the new layout, which features on-road bike lanes and refreshed footpaths with crossing refuges.

Minister for Roads and Road Safety Melissa Horne said the investment was a direct response to the region’s growth.

“We know this is a fast-growing area, which is why we’ve delivered this upgrade to improve safety and keep people moving,” she said.

“This new roundabout will make it easier for locals and visitors to get where they need to go safely.”

While the main intersection is now open, crews will remain on-site over the coming weeks to finish minor works, including landscaping.