By Jena Carr
Three Surf Coast Shire roads could receive grants from the federal government’s 2024-25 Black Sport Program for road safety improvements if applications are successful.
Council will submit grant applications of close to $590,000 for Bell Street, $580,000 for the Bambra to Aireys Inlet Road and $510,000 for Darian Road safety following its October 24 meeting decision.
Councilor Libby Stapleton said she was “really grateful for the Black Spot funding” opportunity to improve the Bambra to Aireys Inlet Road, a “very high-risk bend”.
“This is identified as one of the higher risk accident locations within the surf coast shire and one of three that has been recommended,” she said.
“It’s the site of four recent crashes, and if successful, the funding would be used to improve road safety around that intersection and the roads leading into it.
“Improvements would include extending the sealed surface at the intersection, adding some limited guard rails and improving signs and lines on the road.
Cr Adrian Schonfelder said the three roads were a “very high priority” and that Bell Street between Surf Coast Highway and Rudd Avenue required upgrading.
“The volume of pedestrian’s crossing those different intersections of bells street, I’ve noticed an increase in patronage,” he said.
Cr Rose Hodge said providing safer roads in the shire was a key priority and that the grant could help fully fund the projects, including Darian Road between Surf Coast Highway and The Esplanade, if successful.
“Darian Road is one of the big connection roads as people come into Torquay and turn left to go down into the Esplanade,” she said.
