Nillumbik Shire Council welcomes the announcement by the Federal Member for McEwen, The Hon Rob Mitchell MP, of $1.2 million in funding for major safety upgrades to Ironbark Road.
Under the Australian Government's Black Spot Program, the improvements will be made to Ironbark Road between Collins Street in Diamond Creek and Yan Yean Road in Yarrambat.
In a project delivered by Council, safety measures will include signage and line marking, road widening and shoulder sealing, intersection improvement works and upgrades, and roadside protection measures such as guard rails.
Nillumbik Mayor Frances Eyre welcomed the funding, saying it would help reduce the number and severity of crashes along the road, saving lives.
"I would like to thank the Federal Member for McEwen Rob Mitchell and the Australian Government for their support in helping making our roads safer," Cr Eyre said.
"Council has been advocating for improvements to this hazardous stretch of road.
"Over the past five years there have been 14 accidents along the road, including two fatalities.
Ellis Ward Councillor Peter Perkins said the rural road had a long history of serious vehicle accidents.
"Local emergency services staff, as well as family and friends of victims, are all too aware of just how dangerous this strip of road can be," Cr Perkins said.
"This funding will help reduce the number of crashes and make it safer for all.
"I would like to thank Rob Mitchell and the Federal Government for recognising this issue and providing the necessary financial support, which is the largest grant Council has received for a single road upgrade."
Now that funding has been secured, Council will finalise the project scope and design and engage with Ironbark Road residents, with the works scheduled for completion by 30 June 2023.
