Council welcomes election commitment for key road projects
Published on 02 November 2026
The City of Whittlesea has welcomed a commitment from the Victorian Labor Party to deliver upgrades to two key transport corridors in the municipality if re-elected.
The announcement includes upgrades as part of Stage 3 of Donnybrook Road, comprising new intersections at Dwyer Street and English Street and a new bridge over Merri Creek, as well as the duplication of Craigieburn Road East between Jardin Road and Edgars Road, including new intersections and improvements to traffic movements. These upgrades are part of an $893 million dollar package to upgrade 50 local roads across Victoria.
While both projects align with Council's endorsed priorities in the Advocacy Prospectus 2025-29 and will help to address critical infrastructure needs in some of Victoria's fastest-growing communities, they fall short of the full upgrades needed.
The City of Whittlesea continues to experience significant population growth, placing increasing pressure on the local road network. Investment in key transport infrastructure is essential to improve connectivity, reduce congestion and support safer travel for residents, businesses and visitors.
Council has consistently advocated for improvements to both Donnybrook Road and Craigieburn Road East, highlighting the importance of these projects in supporting existing communities and accommodating future growth.
Quotes attributable to City of Whittlesea Mayor, Councillor Lawrie Cox:
"Donnybrook Road and Craigieburn Road East are critical transport corridors that support thousands of residents travelling throughout our municipality every day.
"These projects are longstanding advocacy priorities for Council, and we welcome commitments that recognise the need for infrastructure to keep pace with the growth occurring across our community.
"The proposed upgrades would help improve traffic flow, increase road capacity and create a safer and more efficient transport network for current and future residents. However, more investment is needed to ensure these upgrades are delivered in full."