The Andrews Labor Government is investigating medium and long-term solutions to improve safety along the Princes Highway at Tynong North following several serious collisions.
Minister for Roads and Road Safety Ben Carroll said that planning work would focus on implementing future infrastructure to make the intersection at Gumbuya World safer.
While longer-term options are under investigation, the speed limit on the Princes Highway will change from 100km/h to 80km/h along two three-kilometre stretches between Tynong Road North and Gumbuya World entrance and between Hope Street and Abeckett Road.
The decision to make a speed limit change was made alongside road safety partners, including Road Safety Victoria, Cardinia Shire and Victoria Police – deemed a necessary measure to prevent crashes or reducing the impacts when they do occur.
The highway between Tynong Road North and Gumbuya World, and Hope Street and Abeckett Road have been of significant concern in recent years following a considerable increase in traffic and crashes.
Around 30,000 vehicles travel along these two sections of the Princes Highway per day, one quarter of them being le heavy vehicles.
Between 1, July 2015, and 20, April 2021, there have been 35 crashes, including five fatalities along these two sections of the Princes Highway. Almost 75 per cent of the crashes have occurred at intersections.
With two of the fatalities occurring in January and March of this year, it is crucial planning for future upgrades begins as soon as possible to improve safety and save lives.
The Department of Transport will continue to monitor traffic conditions in the area while investigations are underway.
Quotes attributable to Minister for Roads and Road Safety Ben Carroll
“We know the Princes Highway is a significant route for locals, freight operators and tourists, especially those who visit Gumbuya World.”
“The number of severe crashes and fatalities along this section of the Princes Highway is too high, which is why we are carefully considering medium- and long-term solutions to help reduce road trauma and save lives."
Quote attributable to Member for Eastern Victoria Harriet Shing
"This stretch of the Princes Highway at Tynong North has long been a concern – this investigation is going to help us work towards a solution that will ensure the safety of all road users who use this busy route each day."
Quote attributable to Mayor of Cardinia Shire, Councillor Brett Owen
“We understand the need for a speed reduction and look forward to a long-term solution to improve safety for our community along this stretch of road.”
Reviewed 13 August 2021