Temporary Traffic Management Changes in Kennett River

Published on 04 November 2024

Starting mid-November, Colac Otway Shire Council will implement temporary traffic management changes in central Kennett River.

At its June 2024 meeting, Council considered community submissions on proposed speed limit changes in Kennett River in response to resident concerns about traffic safety, parking during peak times, and the increase in visitor traffic, including coaches and small buses, over the previous 12 months.

Council identified several improvements over the last six months in consultation with the Kennett Community Action Group and the Kennett River Association. These changes will be in place for approximately 12 to 18 months until more permanent traffic management changes are implemented by the Great Ocean Road Coast and Parks Authority (GORCAPA) under the State and Federal Government’s Geelong City Deals program.

GORCAPA is currently engaging with the community and stakeholders to develop long-term traffic management and parking improvements, as well as a new public toilet facility.

The scope of the temporary changes being introduced by Council includes:

• Formalising angled car spaces near the store and wetland to improve parking efficiency and orderliness.
• Removing right-hand turn movements from Hawdon Avenue into the river access road, requiring vehicles to use the circular road in front of the store to enter the river area.
• Installing bollards and line markings to prevent parking on the Great Ocean Road side of the river access road near the intersection with Hawdon Avenue.
• Updating traffic signage throughout the precinct.

The current work will cost around $10,000 funded by Council. Future long-term changes will be funded under the City Deals Program.

Council will commence the short-term works early in November and aims to have them completed in time for the increased visitation to Kennett River associated with the December/January school holidays.