Works to transform Sunbury’s most notorious traffic hotspot are expected to start mid to late next year following the compulsorily acquisition of a small area of land to allow approaches to be widened.
Visiting the intersection of Gap Road and Horne Street last week, Roads Minister Luke Donnellan said the $6.4 million project to install traffic lights, turning lanes, pedestrian crossings and bicycle lanes would greatly improve safety and traffic flow.
About 21,500 vehicles travel on Horne Street each day and 18,000 on Gap Road.
‘‘It’s got to the stage where something’s got to be done,’’ Mr Donnellan said. ‘‘With that amount of traffic, a roundabout’s just not going to work any more.’’
Pedestrian safety
The project, due for completion in 2018, will also give pedestrians safer routes to the town centre, schools and public transport.
Sunbury MP Josh Bull thanked residents for keeping the issue on the agenda. ‘‘This is a great day for Sunbury, a great day,’’ he said.
Western Metropolitan Liberal MP Bernie Finn, who with Sunbury Residents Association has long campaigned for action, was delighted efforts had paid off.
Hume council mayor Helen Patsikatheodorou also welcomed the project. ‘‘These traffic lights will quicken commute times and ease the frustration that’s been felt by so many families.’’
