Mitchell Shire Council has welcomed the awarding of the construction contract for the Watson Street Interchange Upgrade in Wallan, better known locally as the Wallan ramps.
Australian owned and operated company Winslow will deliver the project, marking a major milestone for the upgrade that will provide additional connections from Wallan to the Hume Freeway and Melbourne.
Early works will begin later this year, with crews already on site carrying out investigations and establishing the site compound ahead of major construction starting in early 2026.
The project will deliver new freeway ramps and upgraded connections to make it easier for motorists to enter and exit the Hume Freeway, while new traffic signals on both sides of the interchange will improve safety and traffic flow.
The upgrade will support around 1,100 jobs, supporting Victoria’s construction industry and creating local employment opportunities.
Once complete, the new interchange will make it safer and easier for drivers travelling in and out of Wallan – improving access for up to 30,000 journeys every day and reducing congestion on local roads.
This progress follows years of sustained advocacy from Mitchell Shire Council to both State and Federal Governments. Council has consistently called for the project to be prioritised to ease growing traffic pressures, improve freight connectivity, and better connect Wallan East residents.
Council has also highlighted the importance of this upgrade in light of the significant population growth forecast for the region, with Wallan’s population expected to grow to more than 50,000 in the coming decades.
The Watson Street Interchange Upgrade is part of a $175 million investment by the Australian and Victorian governments, with the Australian Government contributing $90 million and the Victorian Government contributing $85 million.
The project is scheduled for completion by late 2027.
