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.
The first of six intersection upgrades will kick off at Baltrum Drive in Wollert early in the new year. Works to upgrade the remaining intersections will take place throughout 2024 and 2025 as part of the improvements to Epping Road.
Baltrum Drive will close in both directions between Epping Road and Matilda Avenue from Wednesday 10 January until late February so crews can safely upgrade existing lanes, kerbs, and medians, build sections of new shared walking and cycling paths, and install drainage pipes and critical infrastructure services for new traffic lights and street lighting.
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. With shops remaining open for business as usual, residents in Epping, Wollert and surrounding areas are encouraged to continue supporting local businesses by shopping in the area.
Access to the recently opened Linfield Parade from Epping Road will temporarily change to left in and left out only to maintain safety and traffic flow. A short detour will be in place via De Rossi Boulevard.
Drivers should plan their journeys and allow extra time when travelling through the area. Roadside electronic message boards will notify motorists of any changes.
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 11 January 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.
Drivers should plan their journeys and allow extra travel time.
Along with the intersection improvements and essential services works, the Epping Road Upgrade is adding extra lanes between Craigieburn Road East in Wollert, and Memorial Avenue in Epping.
The project will also build sections of shared walking and cycling paths and new on-road bicycle lanes to improve safety and connectivity for pedestrians and cyclists.
Due for completion in 2025, the upgrade will provide safer, more-reliable journeys for the 35,000 drivers who use Epping Road daily in Melbourne’s north.
More information about the Epping Road Upgrade, including its intersection works and traffic changes, is available on our Epping Road upgrade page.