Major Road Projects Victoria reveals timeline for flagged upgrade to Western Freeway

New details have been revealed for a potential upgrade to a critical road link in Melbourne’s booming western suburbs.

Plans for a much-needed upgrade of the Western Freeway are being drafted with the community expected to have it says ahead of the business case.

Major Road Projects Victoria (MRVP) has revealed drafts are being tabled for a potential upgrade to the Western Freeway between Melton and Caroline Springs.

About 86,000 vehicles travel between the two booming suburbs everyday, with that figure expected to rise to 113,000 by 2031.

Artist renders of potential upgrades to the Western Freeway at Melton. Picture: Moving Melton

The state government authority will consider building additional road lanes, new interchanges and overpasses, as well as upgrades to existing interchanges and to walking and cycling paths.

The upgrades are expected to improve safety, traffic flow, freeway access and accommodate growing demand on the increasingly busy section of road.

Project development director Michael McClean said any disruptions would be kept to a minimum, and would avoid busy periods along the particular stretch of road.

“We thank the community and freeway users for their patience while we complete important investigations to inform our planning for the potential upgrade,” Mr McClean said.

The planning process will determine the project’s environmental and social impact, influence design options and confirm its scope and cost.

This phase will include roadside technical investigations, which could see temporary lane closures and speed reductions.

Later this year, locals and freeway users will be able to provide feedback which will inform further plans and design options.

A business case is set to be finalised late next year.