On the 23rd of April the Council and the local Federal Member, Catherine King announce the closure of Albert Street and the allocation of $1,064,700 to redevelop the area around the intersection with the Midland Highway as part of the Commonwealth Black Spot Program following the death of five people in 2023.
Permanent Closure & Redesign
Albert Street will be permanently closed and the key features of the new design include:
- Cul-de-sac Creation: Albert Street will terminate in a “court bowl” (cul-de-sac) near the southern end, preventing vehicles from exiting onto or entering from the Midland Highway.
- Green Community Space: The area previously occupied by the intersection will be reclaimed and converted into a new public “community activation” space.
- Business Access: Parking will be formalized to service adjacent businesses, and provisions will be made for designated deliveries and a potential taxi zone.
- Safety Upgrades: The project includes priority raised pedestrian crossings, intersection reorientation at the Duke Street end, and improved lighting.
Project Timeline
- Funding Secured: April/May 2026.
- Detailed Design & Tendering: Currently underway (Mid-2026).
- Construction Start: Expected to begin in July 2026.
- Project Completion: Aimed for June 2028.
Why the Change?
The decision followed extensive community consultation (Option 4 of the proposed plans). Council and the Department of Transport identified that the “three-way” intersection of Jamieson, Howe, and Raglan Streets—combined with the steep downhill bend and heavy vehicle traffic—remained a high-risk zone despite previous speed reductions.
While the closure will permanently alter traffic flow for residents and visitors.
Related story https://thewombatpost.com.au/dangerous-to-be-closed/
