The Andrews Labor Government has announced the beginning of construction for a $2.3 million upgrade to improve the safety of one of Sunbury’s major arterial roads.

Member for Sunbury Josh Bull welcomed the start of the Riddell Road upgrade, which is being funded as part of the Government’s Safe System Road Infrastructure Program (SSRIP).

The upgrade will include the installation of 3.8 kilometres of guard rails, 1.1 kilometre of wire rope safety barriers as well as improved line marking and drainage.

In addition, 600 metres of the road shoulder between Phillip Drive/Canterbury Avenue to the Jacksons Creek Bridge in Riddells Creek will be sealed.

The upgrade will address current crash data involving vehicles running off Riddell Road.

In the five years ending 31 December 2014, there were 17 recorded crashes on Riddell Road, between Phillip Drive/Canterbury Avenue and the Jacksons Creek Bridge, resulting one fatality and ten serious injuries.

Riddell Road is one of Sunbury’s major arterial routes and runs through the heart of the city centre through to Riddells Creek.

The upgrade is due for completion later this year.

Quotes attributable to Member for Sunbury, Josh Bull

“The Andrews Labor Government is getting on with fixing the local roads people use and rely on every day.”

“We are delivering safety upgrades where they are needed most.”

“These improvements will make Riddell Road safer for all motorists and reduce the risk and severity of run-off crashes.”