Billboard helps drive Duncans Road interchange demands

A BILLBOARD in Duncans Road, Werribee, has been unveiled as part of a campaign to pressure the state government to make the intersection of Duncans Road and the Princes Highway a full diamond interchange.

Labor MPs, Wyndham councillors and residents last week launched the billboard that states: ‘Looking for the Duncans Road exit? So are the people of Wyndham. Where do you get off, Mr Baillieu?’

Tarneit MP and former roads minister Tim Pallas said the campaign wasn’t a politically-driven stunt.

“This isn’t about criticising the government for not acting, but it’s urging it to act. If the government does this, I’ll be the first person to congratulate them,” he said.

The proposed Duncans Road diamond interchange would have two new western ramps to provide direct access to the Maltby Bypass for those going to Geelong, and access to Duncans Road from the bypass for Melbourne-bound drivers. Estimates show it would cost $18million to build.

Community Alliance for a Diamond at Duncans leader Ray Cody said a diamond interchange would have a profound effect on traffic moving through Werribee.

“If you are driving to Werribee from the Geelong direction, you can’t exit straight off the highway like you could if you were coming from Melbourne,” he said.

Cr John Menegazzo said a diamond interchange would have a “flow-on” effect in reducing congestion, easing traffic movement and boosting jobs and tourism in Werribee South.

Roads Minister Terry Mulder did not respond to requests for comment.