Start scheduled for roundabout

CONSTRUCTION to develop a new roundabout at the intersection of Clyde Road and the Midland Highway is set to begin four years after the project’s reveal.

Initially announced with $5.2 million and $1.3 million from the Federal and State governments, an update from Regional Roads Victoria has slated for works to begin on Monday and to continue for about 10 months depending on conditions.

The Department of Transport and Planning’s executive director of Barwon South West and Grampians, Michael Bailey, said an update for the intersection is key to catering for Bannockburn’s expansion.

“We know that this area is becoming busier as Bannockburn continues to grow, and a roundabout will improve safety and help to keep traffic on the move,” he said.

Announced in 2020, the project has been delayed numerous times and was previously announced to begin in October 2021, and again in May 2022.

The roundabout’s installation will entail upgraded lighting, sign installation, drainage and asphalt works, earthworks, and pavement, traffic island, and kerb construction.

Reduced speeds and lane closures are to be expected with workers set to be onsite between 7am and 5pm, Mondays to Fridays as well as potentially during weekends and nights.

The intersection is geared towards safer exits and entries onto the Midland Highway, a key thoroughfare linking Geelong to Ballarat and connecting many of the Shire’s eastern towns along the way.

Upgrades for the intersection have been requested by the community for years, with Clyde Road seeing nearly 2000 vehicles each day and the Midland Highway estimated to be used daily by 6500 commuters.

Golden Plains Shire is estimated to be one of Victoria’s fastest growing regional municipalities with Bannockburn’s population expected to grow to up to 7000 residents by 2031.

As well as State and Federal funding, the project has also been supported by the Transport Accident Commission.