By Alesha Capone
Ballan Road is being described as “incredibly dangerous” and “too congested” by Wyndham council and residents, who are calling on the state government to upgrade the busy thoroughfare.
The council is urging community members to provide feedback on Ballan Road in an online survey.
The council will use the feedback to encourage the state government to upgrade Ballan Road, including duplication from Armstrong Road to Bolton Road and improving the Ballan Road, Greens Road and McGrath Road intersection.
Since the survey opened on February 1, more than 55 residents have shared their thoughts.
Councillor Mia Shaw said the state government has advised “that they have no intention of funding duplication of Ballan Road, even though the Ison Road/Wyndham Westlink network will not solve the traffic congestion in Wyndham’s west alone”.
She said it was “frightening” that between 2020 and 2041, the population of Manor Lakes is set to increase from 9400 residents to 41,455 residents.
“The traffic issues in Wyndham west are only going to get worse and the Wyndham Westlink is not the only answer,” Cr Shaw said.
“Residents in Wyndham’s west continue to raise issues about commute times which are having a serious impact on our community, as well as truck issues on the road.
“The duplication of Ballan Rd is a less complex project which could provide a more immediate solution to the major traffic issues experienced in Wyndham west.”
Cr Shaw said a truck management detour plan was also needed for Ballan Road.
Comments made by residents who have contributed to the council survey, which the public can view online, include requests for upgrades where Ballan Road meets Evergreen Drive and Manor Lakes Boulevard.
Lia stated that the roundabout where Manor Lakes Boulevard is located, in front of a school, is “shocking”.
“This intersection needs traffic lights,” she wrote.
Clare commented: “Trying to exit from Evergreen Drive onto Ballan Rd towards Werribee is almost impossible let alone safe due to the constant flow of traffic.
“I have lived in the area for over 20 years within Wyndham Green Estate.
“Ballan Rd has had very little done to it during this time and certainly does not cope with the daily traffic demands.”
Details: theloop.wyndham.vic.gov.au/ballan-road-upgrade-state-government-advocacy
