The Albanese and Carroll Labor Governments are delivering a safer Barwon Heads Road for Geelong, Armstrong Creek and the Bellarine.

Stage 2a of the project, between Reserve Road in Charlemont and Lake Road in Armstrong Creek, is on track to open mid next year.

That’s six months ahead of schedule.

Stage 2a is delivering:

  • Extra lanes between Reserve Road and Lake Road

  • Shared walking and cycling paths

  • Upgraded intersections at Precinct Road/Parkfield Boulevard, Central Boulevard/Harkness Boulevard and Warralily Boulevard

  • New traffic lights at Newport Drive and Boundary Road

  • Pedestrian crossings south of Harriott Road and north of the Armstrong Green retirement village.

Precinct Road reopened to traffic on 14 October and the Boundary Road traffic lights will be operational by Christmas.

Major work on Stage 2b, between Lake Road and Lower Duneed Road roundabout in Connewarre, starts in November.

Stage 2b will deliver:

  • An extra lane in both directions

  • An upgraded Buchanan Avenue roundabout with two lanes in each direction

  • A new pedestrian crossing just north of the intersection

  • An extended shared path to connect with the existing network at Holst Street.

These upgrades are delivering better and safer journeys through Armstrong Creek to the Bellarine Peninsula, for the 44,000 vehicles expected to pass through each day along the Barwon Heads Road corridor by 2031.

The $318.18 million Barwon Heads Road Upgrade Stage 2 is funded by the Australian and Victorian governments, with $193.18 million from the Australian Government and $125 million from the Victorian Government.

This builds on the significant investment in Stage One of the Barwon Heads Road Upgrade, with the Australian Government committing $292 million and the Victorian Government contributing $73 million to the project.

Quotes attributable to Federal Minister for Infrastructure, Transport, Regional Development and Local Government Catherine King:

“We’re delivering extra lanes and upgrading intersections in this thriving part of Geelong’s south.

“For visitors heading down the coast or local families, these upgrades will mean less time in traffic and a smoother, safer journey.”

Quotes attributable to Victorian Minister for Roads and Road Safety Paul Hamer:

“We’re delivering this upgrade six months ahead of schedule for one of regional Victoria’s fastest-growing communities.

“This project will cut congestion and deliver safer journeys for drivers across Greater Geelong.”

Quote attributable to Federal Member for Corangamite Libby Coker:

“Barwon Heads Road is a critical link for our growing community, and these upgrades will make a real difference for locals who rely on it every day. I’d like to thank all locals and small businesses for their patience as we roll out these much-needed upgrades.”

Quote attributable to State Member for Bellarine Alison Marchant:

“Barwon Heads Road is the way in and out for so many locals along the Bellarine – so these upgrades will make the daily trip to work, school and the shops safer and smoother.”

Quote attributable to State Member for Western Victoria Gayle Tierney:

“Charlemont and Armstrong Creek are growing fast – and Labor is upgrading Barwon Heads Road to keep up.”