The Western Highway Action Committee has welcomed the Federal Government's decision to allow works on the Western Highway between Buangor and Ararat to restart.
Federal Minister for the Environment Sussan Ley's decision to reject the application for a heritage protection for the area further demonstrates that Major Road Projects Victoria conducted proper planning and consultation in this important project.
Chair of the Committee, Northern Grampians Councillor Kevin Erwin said it was pleasing to see that the Western Highway upgrades would restart shortly.
"This important project has undergone numerous check and balances and reviews - it's time for the works to continue to ensure a safer Western Victoria," Cr Erwin said.
"It's fantastic that earthworks, drainage and widening of the existing highway within a 3.85 km section have progressed so far. It's now time we get on with the rest.
"This duplication work will not only improve safety, but provide a vital, and much-needed boost to the local economy."
The Federal Government's decision follows a report by the Victorian Ombudsman which made it very clear that VicRoads, MRPV and the Victorian Government have acted lawfully, respectfully and appropriately in relation to this project.
"This vital project will improve safety for communities in Western Victoria, so it's now time to get on and continue duplication of the Western Highway through to Ararat and then Stawell," Cr Erwin said.
