Works to upgrade the intersection of Barringo and Hamilton roads in New Gisborne will soon get underway to improve access and safety around the Macedon Ranges Regional Sports Precinct (MRRSP).
The works will see a realigned intersection with a new roundabout to replace the current intersection, and are expected to be completed by July, subject to weather and ground conditions.
This will support the expected increase in traffic and pedestrians following the full development of the precinct.
A signalised pedestrian crossing will also be installed to the west of the intersection in Hamilton Road and a zebra crossing along a raised platform to the north in Barringo Road, to improve pedestrian safety.
Council’s assets and operations director Shane Walden said construction would be staged to minimise disruption, with consecutive closures expected to Hamilton Road (east), Hamilton Road (west) and Barringo Road.
“The new roundabout and surrounding upgrades will be essential in providing better, safer connections to the new facilities,” he said.
“Council continues to work closely with all those nearby who may be more directly impacted by these works, including supporting the nearby schools to maintain safe connections and minimise disruptions for staff, students and parents as much as possible.”
Traffic management, detours and signage will be in place during the works, with full road closures required at times.
Drivers are advised to expect some delays, particularly in the context of the separate Hamilton Road reconstruction works currently underway from the Kilmore Road intersection.
The intersection design was informed and refined through detailed planning work, alongside extensive consultation with nearby landowners and the broader community in 2021.
During this consultation, council reported close to 75 per cent of 200 survey respondents said they preferred a roundabout over alternative signalised options.
There was previously hope of an early opening of the stadium, however the higher-than-average rainfall between November and January prevented this.
“Council is working closely with all pre-booked stadium sporting clubs and user groups, to keep them updated and source alternate locations where necessary,” Mr Walden said.
“We’re looking forward to the facility opening and providing benefits for the broader Macedon Ranges community.”
Details: mrsc.vic.gov.au/MRRSP for more information and project updates.
