Study finds peninsula link to bypass feasible

A $300,000 VicRoads study has confirmed the feasibility of extending Geelong’s ring road to the Bellarine Peninsula.
VicRoads regional director south-western region William Tieppo said the preliminary investigation studied the possibility of crossing the Barwon River at Armstrong Creek.
“A preliminary investigation confirmed the possibility of linking the proposed crossing of the Barwon River in the Armstrong Creek urban growth area to the Geelong-Portarlington Rd,” Mr Tieppo said.
“Further detailed work is required, in consultation with the City of Greater Geelong and the community, to determine the route alignment.”
The City has lobbied for the extension, describing it as “vital for suitable long-term residential and commercial development”.
“This link, including a river crossing, is yet to receive commitment from the federal and state governments,” the City’s website said.
A ring road extension to the peninsula would reduce east-west traffic congestion through central Geelong, the city said.
The extension would also reduce traffic through residential suburbs and townships and increase tourism opportunities through “easier accessibility”.
The City said the link would improve access to the ring road, particularly for Moolap’s industrial area and residents of the peninsula.
Armstrong Creek planning set aside land for the extension from Surf Coast Hwy to the Barwon River.
“Land has already been nominated within the approved north-east industrial precinct structure plan for this future road link,” the City said.
The Independent reported in August that VicRoads had begun studying the feasibility of the peninsula link.
Then mayor John Mitchell said the extension was one of the City’s priorities and the “missing piece of the region’s infrastructure”.
VicRoads had previously said the ring road’s 4C Surf Coast Hwy extension had no allowance for a connection to the peninsula.
But Cr Mitchell said the initial ring road plans had already accommodated three extensions and could do so again.
South Barwon MP Andrew Katos told the Independent last year that any peninsula link alignment would be an arterial road, with several sets of lights, instead of a freeway.