Signs have been installed along a section of the new Buangor bypass to remind of the prohibition on the removal of roadside vegetation.
VicRoads’ Western Highway project team commissioned the signs after environmental groups raised concerns of the potential for members of the public to remove roadside vegetation and fallen trees that could serve as a habitat for local wildlife.
Western Highway project delivery manager Steve Pattinson said although signs are regularly placed on roadsides advising of areas of protected vegetation, this was the first time general signs would be used.
Mr Pattinson said signs will be installed every 200 metres for about 1.5 kilometres.
“We are installing these signs as a trial and this will inform our decisions as to if they will be placed elsewhere,” he said.
The signs read: “VicRoads protected roadside vegetation. Do not disturb or remove vegetation and timber. Before undertaking work in the road reserve, phone 13 11 71”.
