Epping Road intersection upgrades

Baltrum Drive intersection is about to receive a hefty upgrade. (supplied)

More reliable travel is rolling into Epping.

Major civil works to improve key intersections are about to begin in a huge step toward the Epping Road Upgrade’s goal of safer, more-reliable travel.

In 2024 and 2025, six intersection will be upgraded to improve Epping Road.

The first will be Baltrum Drive in Wollert, beginning on Wednesday, January 10, with closures in both directions between Epping Road and Matilda Avenue until late February.

There will be upgrades to existing lanes, as well as new lighting and signage.

Epping Road will remain open in both directions and access to Baltrum Drive will be maintained via Pine Park Drive.

During these works, access to local businesses will be maintained via the Epping Road service road for traffic travelling southbound, while northbound traffic can access the shops via Pine Park Drive.

Major Road Projects Victoria director Adrian Furner said while there will be some delays, the uprgrades are essential.

“Closing Baltrum Drive temporarily will allow crews to safely complete their work before moving on to upgrade the remaining intersections throughout 2024 and 2025,” he said.

The other five intersections set for improvements as part of the Epping Road Upgrade are Hayston Boulevard, Park Street East, Harvest Home Road East, Pine Park Drive and Lehmanns Road. The improvement works at each intersection will take place at different times throughout 2024 and 2025.

The upgrade’s critical works to relocate and protect essential services are also ramping up.

As part of these works, Hayston Boulevard and Fletcher Street will close at Epping Road from Thursday, January 11 until early February so crews can safely install a new water main.

During this time, access to Hayston Boulevard and Fletcher Street will be via Brush Road or Harvest Home Road. Access to private properties and businesses will be maintained at all times.

Due for completion in 2025, the upgrades will provide safer, more-reliable journeys for the 35,000 drivers who use Epping Road daily in Melbourne’s north.