Traffic controllers set for Barwon Heads this summer

Bellarine MP Lisa Neville with Regional Roads Victoria regional director Mark Koliba (holding the stop sign), RRV chief Paul Northey and locals Colin Bridger, Sandy Gatehouse and Judith Brooks. Photo: WARWICK TUCKER

NEW traffic management measures will be implemented in Barwon Heads this summer in a bid to improve travel times and decongest roads.

Bellarine MP Lisa Neville announced on Monday that traffic controllers would be trialled at the pedestrian crossing on Bridge Road during the daytime peak periods, from Christmas Eve until after the Australia Day holiday.

To address the increased traffic over the rest of the year, Regional Roads Victoria (RRV) will install a new left-hand turn lane onto Ewing Blyth Drive from the Barwon Heads Bridge, to prevent queuing on the bridge and keep traffic flowing onto Bridge Road.

“I’ve heard the Bellarine community loud and clear – that’s why the Andrews Labor Government is taking action to improve travel times in Barwon Heads this summer,” Ms Neville said.

“These measures will slash congestion and ensure pedestrian safety – so visitors and locals alike can enjoy everything our coastal community has to offer.”

Temporary electronic Variable Message Signs using Bluetooth technology will also be installed to advise drivers of the travel time to Barwon Heads from Ocean Grove, so that they can make informed decisions about whether they should seek an alternate route if there are delays.

These measures will be monitored by RRV over summer to determine the effectiveness of the traffic improvements.

Due to its popularity as a holiday destination, Barwon Heads has attracted a significant increase in traffic in recent years – with the travel time from Ocean Grove to Barwon Heads jumping to an average of 20-25 minutes in peak times last summer.

To check out what other works are under way or planned in the Bellarine, head to regionalroads.vic.gov.au.