By Jed Lanyon
Permanent repair works to Badger Weir Picnic Area are slated for March following delays caused by coronavirus restrictions and heavy rainfall, according to the state government.
Temporary repairs to the area took place last year but were again in need of repair following storms.
The repair works are set to include the installation of a new culvert to improve drainage and the resealing of damaged sections of the road surface.
A government spokesperson told Star Mail, “We’re making sure Badger Weir picnic ground is accessible and safe for the community to enjoy.
“While wet weather has delayed permanent repair work, this will be undertaken as soon as possible.”
Eildon MP Cindy McLeish had long called for repairs to take place.
“The road repairs are well overdue. The entrance into the picnic area is covered in deep potholes and eroding in parts, making it difficult and dangerous for people to drive over.
“It has been near five months since I first raised this matter with the minister in parliament and surely enough, the road has become progressively worse over time due to the lack of maintenance.”
Temporary works were conducted in September last year.
“I had hoped the road would be fixed by the busy summer period to provide easy and safe access for visitors and locals,” Ms McLeish said. “Disappointingly, summer will most likely be over by the time the repairs commence, leaving the pot-holes as a safety issue during peak season.”
“For months many locals have expressed their frustration at the lack of road maintenance provided to this popular destination. This issue needs to be permanently fixed sooner rather than later.”
The upgrades will come as part of a $52.4 million investment by the Victorian government to maintain and upgrade visitor facilities across the state.
