We recently completed re-sheeting works on 9 streets in Portarlington. This involved replacing the existing gravel, upgrading the drainage, and reshaping the road.
The gravel blend we used is different to the previous material on these roads. The new material has been selected as it significantly reduces dust compared with blue metal and holds together better, meaning less potholes and corrugations, something which the community has asked us to address.
The presence of clay in this blend means that during wetter periods the surface can become tacky. This usually dries and sets shortly after rain has stopped.
The effects that you experienced following the rain event over the Easter weekend is an extreme example of this condition. We understand that this has impacted your access and we apologise for this.
While this a relatively new product to the City we have worked closely with the Australian Road Research Board and neighbouring councils in selecting this product.
What we’re doing to address concerns with the road surface
The road surface on the lower section of Willis Street was particularly impacted so we have restricted through traffic while it stabilises.
We will also be undertaking monitoring and maintenance to ensure driver safety and allow the roads to stabilise. This will include:
- installing signs across the roads impacted to ensure drivers are aware of the current surface conditions
- undertaking maintenance on Willis St (between Harding St and Brown St) to address shoulder rutting.
- installing additional guideposts to improve delineation of edges/ corners etc in the next 2 weeks.
- applying additional rock beaching in drains to stabilise the shoulders (as required); and
- proactively monitoring the road condition during the winter months on a fortnightly basis.
