Published on 07 October 2022
Works have recommenced on the Heavy Vehicle Alternate Route (HVAR) after construction was put on hold during the winter due to wet weather.
Weather permitting, sealing works will proceed from Withers Lane through to the Fords Creek bridge from 10 October. From mid-October, the Withers Lane entry from Maroondah Highway will be closed for a period of approximately 4 weeks to allow for the turning lane off the Maroondah Highway to be constructed without interruption.
Council will communicate directly with affected residents and businesses and Variable Message Signs will be in place to divert traffic via Dead Horse Lane.
The remaining section through to the Midland Highway is expected to be sealed at a later date when ground conditions have improved, after a very wet winter.
Mayor Cr James Tehan said it was exciting to see the project works underway again.
“Getting the HVAR project right is important to Council, so we’ve had to be patient and wait for warmer weather. Now, we look forward to getting the main section of the pavement sealed,” said Cr Tehan.
“This is a major capital works project that will realise huge benefits for Mansfield Shire.”
Council has monitored the quality of the pavement to ensure that it is coping with rain events. The quality of the work by North East Civil Construction, the main contractor, is of a high standard and has withstood the challenging conditions well.