A roundabout will be built at the intersection of Gillies Road and Kennedys Road in Mount Rowan.
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State Roads Minister Luke Donnellan, who was at the intersection on Monday, said the roundabout would increase safety as traffic volumes increase.
“We’re funding capital upgrades on country roads, not maintenance, capital upgrades,” he said.
“It slows people down, it provides a safer environment for people to do those turns - it’s a major upgrade.”
The state government has committed $1 million from the Fixing Country Roads fund, with a $500,000 contribution from the City of Ballarat.
Ballarat City mayor Cr Samantha McIntosh said the intersection, near the Ballarat Turf Club and major horse trainers, was particularly dangerous on race days.
“We want to make sure the regional roads surrounding the municipality also receive the attention they deserve,” she said.
Previously, residents on the road had advocated for reduced speed limits and other upgrades, including turn out lanes and roundabouts.
In the last five years, seven accidents have occurred between Olliers Road and Kennedys Road.
Flashing warning signs have been installed on the Kennedys Road approach to Gillies Road, and there are streetlights at the intersection.
Speed limits have been temporarily reduced on the road during roadworks expected to be finished by mid-2019.
VicRoads’ western regional director Mal Kersting said the Fixing Country Roads fund has made a “big difference” for regional councils.
"Over the years there’s been a lot of improvements made (at the intersection) to address safety issues, but a roundabout is the next step to improve safety,” he said.
“I’m sure (the council) has got a list of projects they’d like to have funded, and we’ll talk to them about ... the higher priorities.”
Opposition transport spokesman David Davis described the announcement as a “catch-up” on Monday morning.
“We need to see the catch-up happen because this government has botched country roads and bridges,” he said.
“I chaired an environment and planning committee inquiry, and country councils made it very clear they wanted the country roads and bridges program restored.”
Mr Donnellan also announced schools that would receive new electronic speed signs, including Cuthbert Street outside Alfredton Primary School and St Thomas More Primary School, on Forest Street outside Ballarat Grammar School, and outside Dana Street Primary School.
READ MORE: School zone speeder cops huge fine
Part of a $5 million package, the signs would highlight speeds during school times, improving safety for students, staff, and parents.
Mr Donnellan would not be drawn on council’s request for a commitment to build stage two of the Ballarat Link Road.
“We’re aware of that, and we’ve got many announcements to further make in terms of this campaign, so in due course we’ll be making statements,” he said.
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