EARTHWORKS on the $505 million Western Highway duplication has slowed recently due to issues with materials found onsite.
VicRoads Western Highway Project director Michael McCarthy said yesterday the earthworks, including pavement works, were always programmed to stop over winter, but there had been a problem with the materials.
“VicRoads is currently working in partnership with the contractor to find a suitable solution,” Mr McCarthy said.
He also denied there were issues with the highway’s contractor, John Holland.
“Work continues to progress on the structures at Cockpit Creek, Springhill Creek, Mt Emu Creek and the rail overpass at Windermere, and pavement works will also continue at Remembrance Drive intersection.”
The Western Highway is currently being upgraded to a four-lane, divided highway between Ballarat and Stawell.
More than 5500 vehicles travel the highway daily, including 1500 trucks, which is expected to double by 2025.
Double Melbourne-bound lanes on the highway between Ballarat and Burrumbeet were opened last month by Ballarat MP Catherine King, with the Adelaide-bound route opening in stages as line marking is completed.
The next 23-kilometre stage between Burrumbeet and Beaufort is being duplicated between Carpenter Road and Smiths Lane.
These works are expected to be completed next year.
The project is jointly funded by the state and federal governments and will also allow for the Avenue of Honour to be rejoined.
fiona.henderson@fairfaxmedia.com.au