Battle brews over war memorial relocation
COLAC Otway Shire deputy mayor Joe McCracken has slammed plans for an “invasive” new roundabout in Apollo Bay, which could see the town’s war memorial relocated.
VicRoads is developing plans for a roundabout on the Great Ocean Road at Nelson St, which would simplify the intersection.
But Cr McCracken said the community had raised “a number of concerns” about the roundabout.
“I’m concerned that VicRoads have plans to significantly change the Apollo Bay streetscape, and it appears they haven’t properly spoken with our community,” he said.
“Keep in mind, this proposal by VicRoads would cost well over $3 million, take an extra 22 metres of foreshore off our community, move the war memorial — changing the very nature of the Great Ocean Rd, and significantly impact accessibility to local property owners.”
Regional Roads Victoria acting regional director Liam Butcher said the roundabout would improve pedestrian safety, limit driver confusion and provide safer turning opportunities for all road users.
“We’re currently in the preliminary design stage and are working closely with the local community to gain their feedback and ideas,” he said.
But Cr McCracken said there was the potential for a less invasive option and solutions to improve parking in the area.
“This needs to be explored before landing so quickly on a preferred option,” he said.
“Nobody doubts that this is a challenging intersection. But surely a less invasive solution can be found.”
Cr McCracken is calling on VicRoads to release all plans for the roundabout, fully consult with all key parties and the community, consider wider options and have a fair time frame for consultation.
VicRoads hosted two community information sessions at Apollo Bay and Forrest in October where residents were encouraged to submit feedback.
It is understood VicRoads is working with the Apollo Bay RSL, Colac Otway Shire and the Otway Coast Committee on the potential relocation of the war memorial from the centre of the road to the adjacent foreshore parkland.
The roundabout design has not yet been finalised.
The roundabout upgrade is part of a $50 million state and federal government partnership for road safety improvements.