A roundabout at the intersection of the Princes Highway and Garibaldi Lane has been identified as a potential long-term solution to improve road access and safety in Allansford, near Warrnambool. The proposal has been included in the draft Allansford Transport and Access Strategy released by Warrnambool City Council, which is now open for community feedback. The council published the proposal on September 9, 2026.

The draft strategy examines how traffic moves through Allansford and considers ways to improve road safety, pedestrian access and cycling connections as the township grows. One of the major factors behind the strategy is the planned closure of the Ziegler Parade Bridge, which is scheduled to close by the end of 2029 because of its deteriorating condition.

The Ziegler Parade Bridge has been an important part of Allansford's road network for many years. However, engineering assessments have identified the ageing bridge as being in poor condition. The structure has operated under safety restrictions for years, including a weight limit and restrictions on traffic movements. Warrnambool City Council has previously committed funding to keep the bridge safe until its planned closure, but a permanent replacement is not currently considered financially feasible for the council.

With the bridge eventually unavailable to motorists, Garibaldi Lane is expected to become a more important access route for people travelling between Allansford and the Princes Highway. A community survey conducted in 2025 found that more residents preferred using Garibaldi Lane to access the highway rather than relying on Grauers Road once the bridge closes.

The proposed roundabout is one of several options being considered for the intersection. The draft strategy also identifies potential widening of the Princes Highway and the possibility of constructing a westbound acceleration lane to help vehicles entering the highway from Garibaldi Lane. These options are intended to make the intersection safer and more efficient as traffic patterns change.

However, the proposed roundabout is not yet an approved construction project. The Princes Highway is managed by the Victorian Department of Transport and Planning, meaning significant changes to the highway would require state government support and funding. Warrnambool City Council says its role includes advocating for the improvements and working with the relevant government authorities.

The draft strategy contains 13 recommendations covering several parts of Allansford. Six of the recommendations would require the council to seek external funding or advocate to other levels of government. Other proposed improvements are within the council's direct responsibility and include better conditions for people walking and cycling through the township.

Community consultation is now underway. Residents can review the draft Allansford Transport and Access Strategy and provide feedback through the council's consultation process. Council will also hold an in-person community feedback opportunity on Wednesday, September 16, from 3:30pm to 5:30pm on the grassed area outside the Allansford Hotel.

Written submissions will remain open until Sunday, September 27, 2026. The feedback will help council understand community priorities before decisions are made about the longer-term transport arrangements.

The proposed roundabout is therefore part of a broader planning process rather than an immediate road construction announcement. The key objective is to prepare Allansford for the expected changes created by the eventual closure of the Ziegler Parade Bridge while improving safety and accessibility for motorists, pedestrians and cyclists.

For residents and motorists who regularly use Allansford's roads, the strategy could have significant long-term implications. The final outcome will depend on community feedback, detailed planning, discussions with the Victorian Government and the availability of funding for any major highway upgrades.