The Albanese and Allan Labor Governments are delivering safer and more reliable journeys for Melbourne's north, with major works now underway on the Watson Street Interchange Upgrade in Wallan.
The milestone marks the start of construction to transform Watson Street into a full diamond interchange, adding a new outbound exit ramp and inbound entry ramp to the Hume Freeway helping to improve access for locals, freight and visitors.
When complete, the upgraded interchange will improve safety, reduce congestion and support Wallan's continued growth, strengthening connections between the Hume Freeway, the town centre and the Wallan East industrial precinct.
Following site investigations, community engagement and establishment of the site compound late last year, crews have begun ground preparation and construction of temporary pavement to keep traffic moving while the new interchange is built.
Works will include laying temporary pavement on the north side of Watson Street between McCarthy Court and Wallara Waters Boulevard, installing temporary safety barriers and signage, and preparing the ground around the interchange for major construction.
Temporary pavement will allow traffic lanes to shift slightly north, maintaining one lane in each direction on Watson Street so motorists can continue to travel through the area while work progresses.
These activities will largely take place at night to minimise disruption.
Once barriers are in place, crews will begin ground works including soil removal, establishment of environmental protection zones and vegetation management within the road reserve, supported by qualified arborists and ecologists.
The right-turn lane on the southbound Hume Freeway exit ramp to Watson Street will be closed for up to two weeks, with motorists heading toward Wallan township able to make a U-turn at the Wallara Waters roundabout.
The Watson Street Interchange Upgrade is jointly funded by the Australian and Victorian Governments and is scheduled for completion by late 2027.
As stated by Federal Minister for Infrastructure, Transport, Regional Development and Local Government Catherine King:
"This is a busy area for both locals and freight and once completed this major upgrade will make the intersection safer and less stressful for everyone passing through."
As stated by Victorian Minister for Transport Infrastructure and Minister for Public and Active Transport Gabrielle Williams:
"Starting major construction means we're getting on with delivering a safer, more efficient interchange that keeps traffic moving while building for Wallan's future."
As stated by Federal Member for McEwen Rob Mitchell:
"This is a major step forward for Wallan and is delivering what we promised our community.
"With construction now underway, this upgrade will make daily trips safer and easier for families, commuters and local business."
As stated by State Member for Kalkallo Ros Spence:
"With major works now underway, this upgrade will deliver smoother access to the Hume Freeway and better connections for residents, freight and visitors travelling through Wallan."
As stated by State Member for Yan Yean Lauren Kathage:
"It's great to see construction begin on the new Watson Street ramps, which will make it easier for our community to travel towards Melbourne and home again while supporting Wallan's growth."
