Plans for an eastern interchange in Bacchus Marsh have been ditched, with new works on Halletts Way announced by the state government on Friday.
Roads Minister Terry Mulder said the revised plans – including upgrades to Woolpack and Hopetoun Park roads and an exit ramp for the Western Freeway to Bacchus Marsh Road – would improve traffic flow and road safety.
“Feedback from the Bacchus Marsh community showed strong support for freeway ramps at Halletts Way and preservation of cultural heritage,” Mr Mulder said.
Avenue of Honour Preservation Group spokesman Damien Strangio said he had been “verbally assured” that trees on Bacchus Marsh’s memorial drive would not be touched as part of the $30 million project.
Previous plans rejected by Planning Minister Matthew Guy would have involved removing five memorial drive elm trees.
“I was told Woolpack Road will be upgraded, which is great as it’s been in a pretty poor condition for many years,”
Dr Strangio said. “There’ll be road works on Halletts Way, with a view to provide the overdue extension and prevent traffic congestion.”
Mr Mulder’s spokeswoman said community information sessions would be held later this year.
Moorabool mayor Paul Tatchell said the revised plans looked promising – a “complete change” from previous plans for Moorabool.
“They’ve dropped the interchange and it’s going to save the river red gums and Avenue trees,” he said.
Cr Tatchell said plans concerning Woolpack Road and Halletts Way had been vexatious for many locals.
He hinted that last Friday’s announcement may affect the outcome of tonight’s council meeting that will discuss a proposal to rezone land for a housing development at Underbank Stud Farm.
“There’s a lot of emotion around Underbank,” the mayor said. “They’ll solve some of the traffic problems … discussions of Underbank tend to align with discussions about traffic.”
PRISCILLA MOCA
