Work is underway to build a new retaining wall at Wye River to improve safety and ensure two lanes of traffic will be kept open to provide better access for locals and certainty to tourists in the lead up to Christmas.
Minister for Roads and Road Safety Luke Donnellan inspected the site of the wall today ahead of its expected completion by the busy summer period when many holidaymakers visit the Great Ocean Road.
The concrete structure is part of an Andrews Labor Government’s $2 million emergency project to stabilise the embankment between Wye River and Separation Creek.
The Great Ocean Road has a history of landslides and during September and October more than 120 were recorded following heavy rainfall.
VicRoads crews have worked around the clock to clear more than 10,000 tonnes of material and debris from the road. At Paddy’s Path, the ground has moved about two metres and it’s still moving.
The 50 metre long by 3 metre high concrete retaining wall was designed by geotechnical experts as a long-term solution to stabilise the base of the hill, in addition to extra protective measures including soil anchors and mesh netting.
Another retaining wall higher up the slope will also be installed over the following months.
Works to repair a landslide below the road 500m east of Separation Creek are continuing.
Quotes attributable to Minister for Roads and Road Safety Luke Donnellan
“We were elected to put people first – and that means providing the infrastructure local residents need to ensure they get where they’re going safely.”
“We know how important the Great Ocean Road is to Victorians and tourists alike, and we want the world to know that it’s safe and open for business in the lead up to Christmas.”
Quotes attributable to Member for Western Victoria Gayle Tierney
“Building this wall means we can open both lanes below Paddy’s Path, provide safer and reliable access, and continue to attract tourists and holidaymakers to our region.”
“The Andrews Labor Government will continue to work closely with the community and local council on how best to safeguard the future of this area and provide the funding and support needed to make that happen.”
Reviewed 19 August 2020