Greater Shepparton City Council have endorsed the purchase of a small parcel of land from IGA, to support the planned upgrade of the Numurkah Road and Hawkins Street intersection in Shepparton.
The decision, made at the April Council Meeting, will allow Council to progress the upgrade works designed to improve road safety, traffic flow and access at the key intersection which continues to experience increasing vehicle movements and congestion.
The estimated $6.38 million project has received $5 million in Australian Government funding through the Safer Local Roads and Infrastructure Program, with Council to contribute the balance, alongside financial contributions from IGA and other nearby developments.
The intersection upgrade will see signalisation and upgraded turning lanes to improve safety and access for motorists, cyclists and pedestrians.
Mayor, Councillor Cr Shane Sali, said the land purchase was an important step toward delivering a safer intersection.
"Numurkah Road and Hawkins Street is a key intersection in Shepparton, with thousands of motorists using the intersection each week. We recognise that there are serious safety concerns at the site, and this upgrade with alleviate the pressure by providing safer turning and accessibility for motorists and pedestrians in the area," he said.
"This land acquisition will enable Council to proceed with the preferred design, supporting better traffic flow and safer movement for all road users."
Council have worked alongside IGA on an agreeable design for the intersection, ensuring the design accommodates the required access needs to the adjacent car park. The intersection upgrade is part of the wider Shepparton North Activity Centre Structure Plan, which seeks to transform the area into an activity centre, while providing safer movement in and around Shepparton Sports City.
The land acquisition will enable Council, in coordination with Transport Victoria, to construct the intersection to the required standard, while managing risks and achieving a safe and timely delivery.
