Freight vehicles transporting grain to GeelongPort have been
re-routed due to bridge upgrade works currently underway at Corio Quay Road in
North Geelong, managed by the Department of Transport and Planning (DTP).
The City of Greater Geelong has worked closely with DTP to
identify and implement a temporary alternate route to ensure continued access
for high-productivity freight vehicles (HPFVs).
As part of the detour, HPFVs are now travelling through
sections of Gheringhap Street and Mercer Street in the Geelong CBD.
To ensure the route could safely accommodate the heavy
vehicle loads, the City’s Civil Infrastructure team conducted rapid inspections
of local roads and underlying infrastructure, including heritage drainage
systems.
This complex inspection process, which would typically take
up to two months, was completed in under three weeks—reflecting the City’s
commitment to supporting industry and the economy.
The route has been confirmed to support loads of up to 83
tonnes. Further assessments are ongoing to determine whether the full 90-tonne
capacity typically used by these freight vehicles can be supported.
Up to 15 HPFVs are expected to use the detour route through
Geelong CBD, between 9.30am and 2.30pm, seven days per week.
Bridge upgrade works are expected to be completed by
late
2025.
GeelongPort is Victoria’s largest bulk port and plays a
vital role in supporting the state’s agricultural sector. Without urgent
intervention, the disruption risked significant impacts on the economy and food
supply chain.
The detour route was created in response to industry
demands, however other options are being investigated and explored by
Department of Transport and Planning.
For further information or queries please visit the
Transport Victoria website -
Corio Quay Road Bridge Upgrades