Patching up shire's roads

Hepburn Shire Council has awarded a $500,000 road-patching contract and also entered into a partnership with five other councils to deliver a regional approach to bitumen resealing.

The council has allocated $2.73 million in the 2023/24 budget for reconstruction, resealing and gravel re-sheeting of roads across the shire, in addition to around $3million of operational expenditure for other repair works.

Mayor Cr Brian Hood said investment in roads was a justifiable concern for the community and a major priority for the council.

“Successive years of wet weather have seriously deteriorated road conditions and led to potholes and other road defects. This is an ongoing challenge that all road authorities are facing,” Cr Hood said.

To optimise effectiveness, patching works will begin in spring once weather conditions improve. The program of works will be based on an audit of road pavement defects carried out earlier this year, ensuring works are prioritised in an evidence-based manner. The contract was awarded to Civil by Parker.

Meanwhile, Hepburn Shire Council is partnering with Ararat Rural and Ballarat cities and Pyrenees, Moorabool and Golden Plains shires, in a regional bituminous resealing program with Victorian-based contractor, VSA Roads.

“Joining together with neighbouring councils to improve our roads makes good sense, both from a safety and financial perspective,” said Cr Hood.

Bituminous resealing gives the road a fresh coat of protection and grip to ensure continued usability and durability.

“Bituminous resealing will start in our shire early next year. It’s a key tool in improving and maintaining our road network.”

The council has also awarded a contract to improve kerb, channel and carparks in High Street, Trentham. The $227,992 contract was awarded to Fulton Hogan.

The project includes the construction of kerb outstands to improve pedestrian safety and access and reduce speed at the intersection of Quarry and High streets. A section of bluestone will be re-laid, with new asphalt on High Street.

Words: Donna Kelly