The Andrews Labor Government is considering an independent report prepared in consultation with the Wandong and Heathcote Junction community on the proposed Wandong Interchange as part of the Kilmore Wallan Bypass.
The Labor Government will give full and careful consideration to the recommendations in the report before reporting back to the community in coming months.
An independent review recommended by Member for Northern Victoria Jaclyn Symes and undertaken by independent consultants RMCG examined the community’s concerns about the Kilmore-Wallan Bypass Project.
In March 2015, the Government announced the Western Option as the preferred option for the Bypass, following advice from the Minister for Planning’s assessment of the Environmental Effects Statement Inquiry undertaken by the former Liberal National Government.
Following community consultation on the Western Option, concerns were raised by some community members about the proposed design for the Wandong Interchange (Hume Freeway).
Construction of a new roundabout to improve safety of the intersection at Northern Highway and Broadford-Kilmore Road has recently been completed. This new roundabout is the first step towards a future bypass.
The Government has announced $750,000 in funding to finalise the business case for Kilmore Wallan Bypass Stage 1.
The proposed route for stage 1 runs west of Kilmore, from the roundabout at the intersection of the Northern Hwy and Broadford-Kilmore Road and connects to the intersection of the Northern Highway and Epping-Kilmore Road.
This funding paves the way to starting this long awaited project.
The independent report is available for the community to review at:
Quotes attributable to Minister for Roads Luke Donnellan
“We all want the best outcomes for the Wandong community and we will consider this report very carefully.”
“This is a really positive step and we’re working to address the community’s concerns.”
Quote attributable to Member for Northern Victoria Jaclyn Symes
“I want to thank all the residents of Wandong and Heathcote Junction who raised their concerns with me and who contributed to the report which will be fully considered by the Minister.”
Reviewed 19 August 2020