Geelong prepares road to recovery following recent flooding

Local roads will undergo a major refresh following destructive flooding across the state.

Rapids at the old Breakwater Bridge after the flooding in Geelong. Picture: Alan Barber

A project for a major refresh of roads leading into Geelong is now underway following the recent, destructive flooding.

Major roads leading into Geelong, including the Princes Hwy and multiple locations along the Great Ocean Rd, will undergo rebuilding and rehabilitation works by Regional Roads Victoria.

Rapids at the old Breakwater Bridge. Picture: Alan Barber

Barwon South West regional director Michael Tudball said with 525 roads across the state still closed for emergency repairs, the project will target those most affected by the recent flooding.

“The first package of works is about repairing those roads that have suffered the most damage in the wake of floods and keeping communities connected to vital supplies and services,” he said.

The $19.4m repairs will focus on structural repairs, asphalt patching, cleaning and fixing roadside drains and culverts, stabilising landslides and clearing roadside debris.

Some of the projects are already underway, but Regional Roads flagged others will have to wait for warmer weather “to provide more suitable conditions for rebuilding works”.

“Our immediate response has focused on delivering short-term emergency repairs to get roads reopened as soon as possible.

“Now we’re turning our attention towards the first stage of longer-term, larger-scale repairs,” Mr Tudball said.

Other roads in Victoria due for a refresh include Darlington Rd, Steiglitz Rd, Midland Highway, Great Alpine Rd and Hume Hwy.

Originally published as Geelong prepares road to recovery following recent flooding