VicRoads and environmentalists have installed tree hollows next to the Beaufort-Ararat section of the Western Highway. 

The 12 hollows were placed on a road reserve just off the highway to provide more nesting options for animals.

Western Highway duplication has been stalled since February this year, when it was revealed planning permits for the project had lapsed, forcing construction to be halted.

It has also faced fierce opposition from community groups opposed to the chosen alignment of the duplication.

The hollows were an initiative of the Environmental Consultation Group, made up of community members, who liaise with VicRoads.

The group has been run by environmentalists with VicRoads’ participation.

Western Highway Conservation Group chairman David Leviston said the group was pleased to cooperatively work with VicRoads on the tree hollow project.

“It’s great that we are able to come together on certain projects,” he said.

“The placement of old hollow logs will enhance the survivability of native wildlife by providing numerous hollows for nesting, which will be an absolute bonus to the nesting boxes already on site.”

Signs have been installed to notify the public the area is a protected site.

VicRoads worked with construction contractor Lendlease to collect the hollows from a wood merchant in Buangor and then install them to ensure minimal disturbance to the site.

Project delivery manager Steve Pattinson said full credit must go to the environmental group for suggesting the hollows.

“They are very much focussed on the environmental restoration and asked if hollows could be placed in an established reserve to enhance the environment,” he said.

Work to duplicate 55 kilometres of the Western Highway between Ballarat and Ararat has already been completed.

More work was expected to start on the highway between Buangor and Ararat later this year, once planning permission has been reinstated.