Roundabout works to change traffic flow

VEHICLES along the Midland Highway are being diverted until early next month to allow for the construction of a roundabout at the Clyde Road intersection, Bannockburn.

The traffic restrictions have been in place since Thursday last week and are expected to continue until 10 September.

While the closures are in effect, drivers travelling towards Geelong on the Midland Highway won’t be able to turn right onto Clyde Road into the township.

Those intersecting from Clyde Hill Road will only be able to turn left onto the Midland Highway and can follow a detour towards Bannockburn or Ballarat.

Drivers entering from either of these two points will be moved onto a section of the new roundabout, with a 40-kilometres-per-hour speed limit in place.

A statement from the Department of Transport and Planning said the roundabout is about ensuring a safer intersection into Bannockburn.

“Golden Plains is a growing shire, and these upgrades will deliver a safer entrance to the Bannockburn township,” the statement said.

“The Midland Highway is a key connection route from Ballarat to Geelong and the intersection upgrade will make the intersection safer for the thousands of motorists who travel this highway every day.”

The traffic diversion is aimed at allowing works to progress on the Midland Highway’s south side.

Construction on the roundabout began earlier this year, four years after the project’s initial announcement.

It’s being funded to the tune of $5.2 million and $1.3 million between the Federal and State governments respectively, with support from the Transport Accident Commission.

It’s estimated the Midland Highway sees 6500 vehicle daily between Geelong and Ballarat, with nearly 2000 drivers utilising Clyde Road each day.