Development underway at Brewery Tap intersection after decades-long lag

The eastern gateway to Ballarat has been shrouded in uncertainty – and a bit of a presentation problem – for years now. 

❓ What happened: The Western Freeway and Brewery Tap Road intersection in Warrenheip has been a well-known spot for confusion and near-miss crashes for a long time. It’s also the key link between Ballarat, Melbourne, and the wider Western Vic region. 

• The land surrounding the area was purchased by VicRoads approximately 25 years ago

• As the population of Ballarat continues to grow, the intersection is a hotspot for congestion. 

• The road is considered “derelict” by locals, and the vast majority of businesses along the stretch of road have been left in uncertainty as to whether they will have to close their doors for development and construction.

Things have basically been in limbo for most of recent memory. 

🗣️  “It’s the worst intersection between Melbourne and Adelaide. The area has been left to go to ruin, and it’s not been a priority for the government.” Kirrily Liddle, Secretary for Committee 4 Warrenheip said. 

Who’s that? The Committee 4 Warrenheip is a community group that has advocated for this development for multiple years. 

🌤️ Change on the horizon: In early February, the Australian Government announced a $100 million investment into planning and preliminary works to upgrade the intersection.

• Local MP and Minister for Infrastructure, Transport, Regional Development and Local Government Catherine King said the area is a key focus due to housing and resident growth. 

💰 The cost of waiting: There is definite momentum in improving the area, but it comes after a substantial delay. 

• “They’ve been focused on the Western side of Ballarat, and all the growth over there so we’ve been neglected - despite being the main gateway from Melbourne.” Liddle said.

• “A lot of businesses have gone under in the meantime.”

• “There have been a lot of accidents. It’s hard for locals to drive through, let alone visitors.” 

Local businesses trying hard: The Brewery Tap Hotel, previously open for 155 years, closed down in 2021. Elsewhere, popular family business Wilson’s Fruit & Vegetables was forced to relocate while development of the intersection stalled. 

⏰ What next: Community input on the project has now ended and announcements are expected to follow regarding early works soon. The community waits with a hesitant hope.