Works start on roundabout at Birregurra intersection

EARLY works have started on a new roundabout to improve safety at a dangerous intersection near Birregurra.

Last week, Minister for Roads and Road Safety Jaala Pulford visited the intersection of Birregurra- Forrest Road, Colac Lorne Road and Deepdene Road, where fencing, vegetation removal and service relocation works have begun.

These early works will pave the way for major construction to begin at the end of summer, to minimise disruption during the school holidays.

The state government has invested $4.9 million to build a new roundabout following three crashes last Christmas holiday period, where one person lost their life and others were seriously injured.

The roundabout will help lower the speed of vehicles on approach to the intersection and reduce the risk of cross-traffic and rear-end crashes.

Significant earthworks will also be undertaken to improve sight lines to this intersection.

Regional Roads Victoria has already set a safer speed limit, trimmed vegetation to make it easier for drivers to see on coming traffic and improved line marking.

New speed signs with a “high accident intersection” warning and raised reflective markers have also been installed.

“We’ve listened to the community and we’re taking action to improve safety at this intersection,” Ms Pulford said.

“We do not want to see another Christmas period marred by tragedy on our roads, which is why we’re getting started now on this vital safety upgrade.”

The intersection upgrade is part of the Towards Zero Action Plan, funded through the Transport Accident Commission and delivered by Regional Roads Victoria, which aims to reduce the number of lives lost on our roads each year to fewer than 200 and serious injuries by 15 per cent by 2020.

To keep track of this project or check out what other works are under way or planned in your area, head to regionalroads.vic.gov.au.