Gerald Lynch
The state opposition has slammed the state government for failing to allocate funding to and get work started on the the Yan Yean Road upgrade, following last week’s state budget.
Northern Victoria Liberal MP Wendy Lovell said the government’s handling of the road has seen it fall into disrepair.
“Yan Yean Road is a disgrace, and the process for planning and delivering the stage two upgrades to Yan Yean Road has been “shambolic”.
“This future road infrastructure is critical for connecting the growing northern suburbs.
“The government must stop delaying this project, and get on with funding and completing the upgrades to Yan Yean Road.”
The project has been in its planning stage for multiple years, and the opposition said cars are regularly being damaged by potholes and “chronically congested roads” between Bridge Inn Road and Kurrak Road, meaning the upgrades are urgently needed.
The opposition said the lanes on Yan Yean Roadare narrow and congested, making for a dangerous scene and increased chance of accidents.
On Saturday, April 13, a young local was struck by a car while walking on the dark and narrow on Yan Yean Road. He is currently in ICU, in an induced coma.
The stage two upgrade involves widening Yan Yean Road between Kurrak Road, Yarrambat, and Bridge Inn Road, Doreen.
According to the Department of Transport and Planning (DTP), the project underwent an environmental effects statement process (EES) in 2020, which was presented to the planning minister in February, 2021.
The minister gave the upgrade the green light in March, 2021, pending changes to the scope and design of the project.
Major Road Projects Victoria is currently working to refine the project design, obtain environmental and planning approvals required and address the outcomes of the EES to ensure the best outcome for road users, the community and the surrounding environment.
DTP completed major maintenance works along Yan Yean Road between Worns Lane and North Oatlands Road at the end of 2023.
DTP also has upcoming maintenance works between North Oatlands Road and Ashley Road in the coming months.
