Works to improve safety and traffic flow at the intersection of Bristol Road and Surf Coast Highway in Torquay are due to commence shortly. These works include the installation of traffic lights at the intersection.
As part of the intersection upgrade:
- Traffic will be able to turn right as well as left from Bristol Road onto Surf Coast Highway (currently only buses can turn right here).
- There will be new signalised pedestrian crossings on both Bristol Road and the highway, making it much safer for people to cross.
- Traffic from the intersection will be able to enter the service road (near St Therese Church), however service road traffic will need to use the Zeally Bay Road intersection to enter the highway.
- A new footpath will be constructed on the western side of the highway, from the pedestrian crossing to the northern boundary of the church site.
"I have seen many families trying to cross this busy road. The intersection upgrade and traffic lights will make it safer for all road users, including pedestrians and families, trying to cross the busy Surf Coast Highway ," Mayor Cr Liz Pattison said.
"We have heard the community's reluctance for more traffic lights in Torquay, but as the town grows and gets busier, safe crossing points and safe intersections for all road users are needed along Surf Coast Highway".
"Upgrading this intersection will also mean all those driving home from the supermarket and shops will be able to turn right out of Bristol Road onto the highway," she said.
Road closures to enable safe working conditions for construction crews will include:
- Surf Coast Highway southbound: single lane closure, for approximately six weeks in August and September.
- Bristol Road: closed from Surf Coast Highway to Payne Street for approximately two weeks in September.
- Surf Coast Highway northbound: full closure for approximately six weeks in October and November. Northbound traffic will be guided through the works area on the southbound carriageway.
Traffic management will be on site to guide traffic through the work site. Fulton Hogan is conducting these works on behalf of Surf Coast Shire Council.
This project, which will help cater for recent and future growth, is a part of the Torquay Jan Juc Development Contribution Plan, a long-term plan which developers are required to contribute to.
You can find out more about the project at surfcoast.vic.gov.au/BristolRoadSCH
