Planning for the long-awaited Westwood Drive extension and bridge is well under way, but Melton council still needs feedback on the design of a kilometre-long noise wall.
Acoustic engineers have recommended noise barriers along the new section of the road to ensure the area complies with VicRoads’ noise limits.
Designs for the walls have been drafted, and Melton council’s engineering services manager Charles Cornish said residents who live nearby have been asked for input and their opinions on four separate proposals:
•A 310-metre long, 2.4-metre high continuous wall along the eastern side of the Kororoit Creek;
•A 300-metre long, 2.8-metre high non-continuous wall (for pedestrian access) along the western side of the Kororoit Creek;
•A 180-metre long, 1.8-metre high continuous wall near Arbour Boulevard; and
•A 90-metre long, 2.1-metre high continuous wall on the southern end of Kororoit Creek.
Mr Cornish said there was no need to acquire land for the walls as they would be located within the existing road reserve.
The Westwood Drive extension and bridge over Kororoit Creek are an integral part of the Palmers Road corridor project, which will eventually be developed as a 16-kilometre, six-lane road connecting the Calder and Western freeways.
The project is expected to significantly ease pressure on Caroline Springs Boulevard and Gourlay Road.
Melton council has also allocated $2 million to build a bridge at Westwood Drive over Kororoit creek in its 2017-18 draft budget. Mr Cornish said the council is awaiting approval from the planning minister before advertising the project for tender in July.
“If council can go to tender in July, the selected contractor will have site possession to start construction in September 2017,” Mr Cornish said. “Construction is expected to take 12 months.”
Residents are invited to information sessions on the design of the noise walls on Thursday, April 20, 2-4pm and 6-8pm, at the Caroline Springs library.
Details: 9747 7200.
