Forecast halts tree removal works

Scheduled tree removal works along the Black Spur will be postponed on Wednesday 29 and Thursday 30 April due to forecast inclement weather.

Yesterday, Star Mail reported that the Bureau of Meteorology issued a warning for damaging winds and heavy rainfall leading to flash flooding in the north east of the state over the next two days.

Crews have been working along the Maroondah Highway for the last month removing 70 trees between Healesville and Narbethong.

Motorists are reminded to slow down in the wet, to be extra-vigilant when behind the wheel and to avoid driving through floodwater. Drivers are advised to leave extra space between themselves and the car in front, as braking distances increase in wet conditions.

The use of headlights is recommended to help see and be seen. Drivers are reminded to look out for cyclists and motorbikes which can be harder to see.

If the rain becomes too heavy for wipers to cope, the Department of Transport suggests pulling over safely and waiting for the rain to pass.

Damaging winds will likely result in branches and other debris on the road. Where possible, motorists should move parked cars under cover – away from trees.

Road closures are planned to resume again next week with electronic signs in place to safely guide motorists through the detour, using the Melba and Goulburn Valley highways through Yea and Alexandra.

This is a significant detour that could add more than an hour to the journey. Drivers are encouraged to plan their travel outside of works hours, or to allow extra travel time.

Motorists are reminded there are only four reasons to leave your house: for food and supplies, exercise, medical care and caregiving, and for work and education – if necessary.

Real-time traffic conditions are available at traffic.vicroads.vic.gov.au or via the VicTraffic mobile app. The latest public transport information and network status is available at ptv.vic.gov.au or in the PTV mobile app.