The Allan Labor Government is ensuring a familiar sight will greet locals and visitors in Barwon Heads this summer, as traffic controllers once again don their hi-vis and take up their stop and go signs to help improve travel times in the township.

The traffic controllers will be at the pedestrian crossing on Bridge Road to help ease congestion in Barwon Heads and improve travel times for motorists travelling from Ocean Grove and across the Bellarine Peninsula.

The traffic controllers will be stationed at the crossing on peak days from 10am to 5pm from Saturday 16 December until Sunday 28 January 2024.

What initially started as a trial in 2018 has proved to be a great success, with the traffic controllers returning each year to provide safer crossing opportunities for pedestrians and improved journeys for drivers.

Data collected revealed that the implementation of traffic management at the pedestrian crossing reduced travel times for drivers travelling through Barwon Heads by up to 14 minutes during peak times.

Due to its popularity as a holiday destination, there is a significant increase in traffic through Barwon Heads over the summer season – with the travel time from Ocean Grove to Barwon Heads regularly exceeding 20 minutes in peak times, compared to the usual journey time of eight minutes.

Quotes attributable to Member for Bellarine Alison Marchant

“We know how busy it can get over summer with thousands of visitors travelling to Barwon Heads and we’re taking action to improve travel times over the holiday period.”

“Traffic controllers will once again be on hand to help keep traffic moving and provide safer crossing opportunities for pedestrians so visitors and locals can enjoy everything the Bellarine Peninsula has to offer.”