The City of Ballarat has welcomed this week's announcement by the Australian Government of a $100 million investment towards planning and early works to upgrade the intersection of the Western Freeway at Brewery Tap Road in Warrenheip.
This significant commitment was part of the broader $1.1 billion investment announced by Minister for Infrastructure, Transport, Regional Development and Local Government Catherine King for the Western Freeway corridor.
The funding announcement has also been committed to by the Shadow Minister for Infrastructure, Bridget McKenzie should the Coalition be successful at the next Federal Election.
The Brewery Tap Road intersection is a key gateway to Ballarat, linking the city to Melbourne and the broader Western Victoria region. With increasing freight and commuter traffic, investment in this crucial piece of infrastructure will help ease congestion, improve road safety, and support future economic growth.
City of Ballarat Mayor, Cr Tracey Hargreaves said the announcement is a major win for the region, ensuring Ballarat continues to develop as a leading regional centre.
"This is a much-needed investment in one of Ballarat's busiest intersections," she said.
"Improving access to and from the Western Freeway at Brewery Tap Road will provide safer and more efficient travel for residents, visitors, and businesses alike.
"With Ballarat's population continuing to grow, this funding is vital to ensuring our transport network keeps pace with increasing demand. We look forward to working with all levels of government on delivering these essential upgrades."
The City of Ballarat will continue advocating for further investment in regional road infrastructure to ensure a safer, more connected, and more prosperous future for the community.