Tom Ingleton
Big bucks and big plans are on the way, with Donnybrook Road set to get the long-awaited makeover locals have been calling for.
Whittlesea council has welcomed bipartisan commitments from both federal parties, who have announced major investments in Donnybrook Road and surrounding transport links.
The state and federal Lalor parties have recently pledged $125 million to upgrade the congested Donnybrook Road and Mitchell Street intersection.
The project will result in the current roundabout replaced with a fully signalised intersection, complete with additional lanes, a new bridge over Kalkallo Creek and the installation of safety barriers.
These changes aim to significantly improve traffic flow and safety for motorists and pedestrians.
The intersection upgrade builds on previous works completed in 2023, including the installation of a dedicated left-turn slip lane that improved access to the Hume Freeway.
In addition, the federal government has committed $7.05 million to develop a business case aimed at upgrades to the Craigieburn and Upfield train lines.
This will explore the potential for track modifications, electrification of the line to Donnybrook station, new stations at Cloverton, Beveridge and Summer Hill Road, and other critical infrastructure improvements.
Meanwhile, the federal Coalition has promised a separate $192 million election commitment to upgrade Donnybrook Road further.
This includes duplicating the road to Epping-Merriang Road, upgrading its connection to the Hume Highway, removing the level crossing at Donnybrook station, and building a new signalised intersection at Mitchell Street and the southbound freeway exit.
Whittlesea mayor Aidan McLindon welcomed the announcements, describing them as game-changers for the community.
“As one of the fastest-growing municipalities in Victoria, our residents need infrastructure that keeps pace with growth,” Cr McLindon said.
“We’ve long advocated for these upgrades, and it’s encouraging to see all levels of government recognising the importance of Donnybrook Road and our transport network.”
