UPDATE: The Victorian government has just confirmed a crucial truck curfew on Williamstown Road that will take effect when the West Gate Tunnel opens to traffic later this year. In a late-night social media announcement, Victoria’s Freight Minister Melissa Horne revealed that trucks will be banned from using Williamstown Road from 8 PM to 6 AM every night, as well as from 8 PM on Friday until 6 AM Monday.
Residents of Yarraville have been anxiously awaiting this decision, fearing that new tolls on the West Gate Tunnel would drive truck traffic onto their local roads. Horne’s announcement is seen as a significant victory for the inner-west community. “It’s been a huge amount of work to get to this point,” Horne stated in her video. “This is a game changer for the inner west.”
The decision comes after extensive consultations with local residents, who expressed concerns in September about potential increases in truck traffic in their neighborhoods. Many believed that the new tolls would incentivize truck drivers to divert to Williamstown Road to save on costs.
Local MP Katie Hall, representing Footscray, echoed Horne’s sentiments, thanking the Department of Transport for their efforts. “This is one of the proudest things I’ve achieved as an MP,” Hall said. “We will have more to tell you over the next week.”
The truck curfew will not only improve air quality and reduce noise pollution but also enhance safety for local residents. With the West Gate Tunnel set to open soon, the immediate implementation of these measures is critical for the community.
As the opening date approaches, residents are encouraged to stay informed about any further announcements. This development marks a pivotal moment for the inner-west, and community leaders are urging residents to share the news widely.
Stay tuned for more updates as this story develops.
