UPGRADE works on Ballarto Road are finally ramping up.
The former Liberal federal government committed $30 million to the project way back in February of 2019. At the start of 2022 the state government confirmed it would proceed with the upgrade of the Carrum Downs road, and allocated a further $6.5 million in taxpayer funding towards it.
Early works began last year. This Monday, 23 January, major works began at the intersection of Ballarto Road and Lyrebird Drive.
The project will see the intersections of Ballarto Road and Lyrebird Drive, Greenwood Drive, McCormicks Road, and Potts Road upgraded. It is expected to be finished by mid-2024.
The Vic Roads website has confirmed that work at Lyrebird Drive is underway. “We’re commencing works to upgrade the Ballarto Road and Lyrebird Drive intersection. As part of the first phase of works we will be removing up to 85 trees and shrubs – any trees with hollows will be placed within the bushland to support local wildlife,” Vic Roads said.
Vic Roads also says that it will be “installing temporary fencing along the bushland to protect animals including swamp skinks from entering the roadside – artificial refuges will also be placed between the temporary fencing and Ballarto Road to safely capture any swamp skinks so that they can be released back into their habitat behind the temporary fencing, [and] commencing road widening works along the southern side of Ballarto Road.” The first phase of works will run until April.
During this batch of works motorists can expect a temporary lane closure and reduced speeds. Two bus stops will also close temporarily.
Dunkley MP Peta Murphy has welcomed the commencement of works. “Ever since I was first elected in May 2019 I’ve been pushing for the promised improvements to dangerous Ballarto Road intersections to be delivered,” she said. “I’m so pleased that construction on these critical upgrades have now started. The community rightly wants action, not just promises – and our government, working constructively with the state government, will deliver for our community.”
The next batch of works at the intersection will see Lyrebird Drive closed at Ballarto Road between mid-April and mid-July. Crews will widen the road, install slip lanes, and put up traffic lights during this time.
A right turn ban out of Dion Drive was considered while the project was being developed but has not been implemented.
As part of the Western Port Highway upgrade, the roundabout at Western Port Highway and Ballarto Road was replaced with traffic lights last year.
For more information on the Ballarto Road upgrade visit vicroads.vic.gov.au/planning-and-projects/melbourne-road-projects/ballarto-road-upgrade
