As part of a 12-month trial, livestock trucks will be given access to the Burnley and Domain tunnels from early 2025.
Livestock and Rural Transporters Association of Victoria (LRTAV) recently reached an agreement with the state government, the City of Melbourne and Transurban, that will allow most livestock freight vehicles to use these CityLink tunnels once the trial kicks off.
Currently, livestock trucks are forced to use busy Southbank streets to avoid the tunnels.
The trial is expected to remove up to 600 heavy vehicles a week from Southbank’s City Road and will be supported by additional safety measures, including signage and road markings.
“We expect this change will improve route efficiency, and ensure livestock are able to be transported in a safe and healthy manner,” said the LRTAV.
“The trial has been made possible by infrastructure upgrades over time which mean the tunnels will be able to accommodate the height of most livestock carriers.”
However livestock operators will need to continue to use the Power Street/City Road detour until the trial start date is announced, along with details of requirements for using the tunnels.
LRTAV says it will communicate further details as they come to light. It is expected that the changes should come into effect around January, though this is yet to be confirmed.
The trial has been made possible by infrastructure upgrades over time which mean the tunnels will be able to accommodate the height of most livestock carriers.
The Victorian Transport Association (VTA) has welcomed this week’s announcement. “This decision is a win-win for the freight industry and all road users, and we are very pleased that common sense has prevailed,” said VTA CEO Peter Anderson.
The association says the move will help to create safer and more efficient roads, without impeding the critical flow of freight throughout the city.
“The VTA have long championed improved management of heavy vehicles on our roads. When you account for recent infrastructure upgrades to the tunnels and advances in heavy vehicle technology, this decision makes perfect sense,” Anderson added.
“As freight volumes continue to rise, this trial sets a vital precedent for future infrastructure planning and the continued safe and efficient movement of goods throughout Melbourne.”
Melbourne’s Lord Mayor, Nick Reece, has also welcomed the news. “Fewer livestock trucks on City Rd is a win for commonsense, safety and a huge victory for the Southbank community. Fantastic to deliver this result after years of hard work with residents.”
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