General News
27 October, 2022
Highway back open
The Loddon Valley Highway between Bendigo and Kerang has re-opened tonight. Department of Transport said speed reductions was in place in some sections. This speed reduction will remain in place until conditions are suitable for crews to deliver...
The Loddon Valley Highway between Bendigo and Kerang has re-opened tonight.
Department of Transport said speed reductions was in place in some sections. This speed reduction will remain in place until conditions are suitable for crews to deliver large-scale, long-term repairs.
The department started repairs on the highway eight days ago with several sections sevceral damaged by floods.
Motorists are urged to drive with extreme caution with an expectation the road surface will be damaged. Leaving extra distance between vehicles will help drivers get a better view of the road ahead.
Melanie Hotton, Director Loddon Mallee Region, Department of Transport, said tonight: “Crews have worked around the clock to re-open to Loddon Valley Highway since it was damaged by recent floods – re-opening this section of the highway ensures that we're keeping local communities connected to essential supplies and services."
“A team of more than 500 people has been deployed right across the state, delivering emergency repairs where they're needed most and re-opening roads as soon as possible."
The department also said: "Drivers are reminded of the dangers of driving through road closures and into floodwater. Not all road closures are manned. It is critical the community obey the signage in place. Barriers blocking access to roads should not be moved as road closures are in place for safety reasons.
"Periods of heavy rainfall, like we are currently experiencing due to a third consecutive La Niña weather pattern, can cause greater damage to our roads and make it harder for crews to undertake work to undertake road repairs.
"Our crews are working hard to clear flood affected roads and make emergency repairs to get them open as quickly as possible. We will never compromise on safety and that is why we can’t open roads and bridges until we’ve inspected them."