Mitchell Shire Council has welcomed a $17 million Labor election commitment to extend John Street in Kilmore and install traffic lights at the High Street and Hamilton Street intersection in Broadford.
Member for Northern Victoria Jaclyn Symes announced the commitments on Friday 30 October. Both depend on Labor being re-elected at the Victorian State Election on Saturday 28 November.
What’s been committed?
- $9 million to extend John Street in Kilmore and install traffic lights where it meets Kilmore-Lancefield Road
- $8 million to install traffic lights at the High Street and Hamilton Street intersection in Broadford
“These are two projects our community has asked for, so we welcome this commitment to both,” Mitchell Shire Mayor John Dougall said.
Why does John Street matter?
Extending John Street will give Kilmore locals a second route for local trips. People will be able to get to the shops and back without driving down Sydney Street.
The Kilmore Structure Plan identifies John Street as a link the town needs as it grows. Once finished, the road will connect Clarke Street with the shopping precinct and Kilmore-Lancefield Road. It will work alongside the new roundabout at Wandong Road, which is under construction now.
“We can’t stress enough how important John Street is to the town. This is about connecting Kilmore. We’re ready to get on with it,” Cr Dougall said.
Why does the Broadford intersection matter?
The High Street and Hamilton Street intersection sits at the foot of the bridge the Inland Rail project raised. Residents have raised concerns about the gradient. Council has supported the Broadford Residents Action Group (BRAG) in its advocacy for traffic lights.
“Safety at this intersection is a priority for our community in Broadford,” Cr Dougall said.
“This is what listening and advocating together can achieve. We thank BRAG for leading the way.”
When would the work happen?
The Department of Transport and Planning has already approved the design for the traffic lights at John Street and Kilmore-Lancefield Road.
The remaining sections of John Street need private land and developer contributions. That means the timing depends on land negotiations and when new subdivisions are built.
What is Council asking for?
Council is calling on all parties and candidates to back both projects ahead of the State Election on Saturday 28 November.
