Ms SPENCE (Yuroke) (12:59:28) — (13 265) My constituency question is to the Minister for Roads and Road Safety, and I ask: what is the expected time frame for completion of the recently announced planning study for a future interchange between the Hume Freeway and Gunns Gully Road? With thousands of families set to move into major developments in the Yuroke electorate in coming years, this planning study is an important measure to ensure that local infrastructure meets the demands associated with a growing population. I know the minister is aware that improved transport connections are a priority for Yuroke residents as he visited Craigieburn last year for a community forum on local roads. I look forward to hearing from him and sharing his response with residents.

Response:

The Victorian Government is continuing to cater for rapid growth in Melbourne’s north by progressing a planning study for a future freeway interchange on the Hume Freeway at Gunns Gully Road located between Kalkallo and Beveridge.

The proposed interchange would provide critical connectivity across the Hume Freeway to meet future traffic demands in this rapidly growing area and relieve pressure on Donnybrook Road. An interchange at Gunns Gully Road would improve the connection between the Merrifield, Lockerbie and Donnybrook – Woodstock precincts.

VicRoads commenced planning investigations for the proposed interchange in August 2017. These works are funded as part of the $20 million Planning our Future package. The planning study is scheduled to be completed and submitted for consideration in the 2019-20 State Budget.

Hon Luke Donnellan MP
Minister for Roads and Road Safety