The Allan Labor Government has delivered a major safety boost for drivers in Ballarat’s west, with work on a new roundabout at a notorious Windermere intersection now complete.

With the support of local stakeholders including the City of Ballarat, Victoria Police, and Ballarat Avenue of Honour/Arch of Victory Committee, the new roundabout at the intersection of Remembrance Drive and Madden Road will deliver a safer journey for hundreds of drivers each day.

The Labor Government has invested $3 million into the four-way intersection, which is in addition to the more than $60 million being invested to upgrade six traffic hotspots and surrounding roads, as part of the Keeping Ballarat Moving project.

The new roundabout includes a raised safety platform design which will reduce vehicle speeds when entering the roundabout. The platforms involve raising an entire intersection at the entrance and departure points through a gentle increase in gradient to ensure vehicles maintain a safe speed until they have passed through the intersection.

Remembrance Drive forms part of the Ballarat Avenue of Honour and Heritage Victoria granted a heritage permit for the upgrade, which saw the roundabout constructed under strict conditions to ensure the protection of the avenue’s heritage.

The roundabout follows a range of upgrades which have taken place in recent years at the intersection including speed restrictions, dedicated turning lanes and improved signage.

Roundabouts are one of the safest types of intersections because they slow the flow of traffic and guide vehicles in one direction, reducing the risk and severity of crashes.

The funding for the new roundabout is part of the Victorian Government’s $1.4 billion investment into reducing road trauma across the state.

Quotes attributable to Member for Ripon Martha Haylett

 “Remembrance Drive is an important part of Ballarat’s history and a vital link for hundreds of motorists every day. It is fantastic to see this notorious intersection now safer, especially for nearby Cardigan Village residents.”

“Ballarat’s west is one of the fastest growing areas in the state and our government is committed to providing the best long-term upgrades to boost safety for local motorists and freight drivers in this busy community.”