A community survey was conducted from July to August 2025 on four options for improvements to the intersection at Albert Street and Midland Highway in Daylesford. The survey was promoted through our publications, newsletters, social media, and a letter drop to the immediate area, resulting in 141 online submissions and a few individual feedback emails.

The votes were almost evenly divided between Option 1 (Two way) and Option 4 (no through). The option chosen by Council was Option 4, known as the No Through Road option.

Option 4 received significant support from the community and involves closing off the intersection at Albert Street and the Midland Highway to create a new green space for the community. This option provides an enhanced greenspace within the township, improved community safety outcomes, improved accessibility to Raglan Street trading area, was the preferred option of the Department of Transport and Planning (DTP) and aligns with Council's strategic goals detailed in our strategic planning work referenced in Future Hepburn. It includes constructing a new turning circle on Albert Street and new footpath links to enhance accessibility and connectivity within the area. Additionally, the works will include provisions for designated deliveries to adjacent traders and possible area for taxis. The progression of the proposed works is subject to the outcome of the grant funding application.

The program summary and criteria can be accessed via the Black Spot Program. A road closure also aligns with the strategic goals outlined in Future Hepburn, with specific plans for Daylesford detailed in the Daylesford Structure Plan, where the town centre objectives begin on page 43 and a visual representation is provided on page 45.

As most in our community would be aware, in late 2023 a devastating collision occurred at the southern end of Albert Street in Daylesford, tragically claiming the lives of multiple people. Our thoughts remain with the families, friends and broader community affected by this incident, one which underscores the need for long-term safety enhancements at this location.

Since that time, Council has progressed a number of immediate actions, representing a critical response while we identified and assessed long-term solutions:

• Installation of large protective barrier rocks to prevent vehicle encroachment into the roadside dining areas.
• Advocated for and implemented a speed reduction across the township in collaboration with the Department of Transport (DTP) to enhance pedestrian safety.
• Initiated the preparation of concept plans for possible treatment options at Albert Street (the subject of this consultation).

This consultation aims to provide an update on what has been achieved so far, outline the treatment options that have been developed in collaboration with DTP, and seek community feedback and support to ensure that local needs and concerns are considered. It is Council’s intention to apply for grant funding for works on Albert Street, under the Federal Government’s Blackspot Program, which supports road safety upgrades at identified high-risk locations.

Four concepts have been prepared which provide safety improvements on Albert Street, from Duke Street to the Midland Highway/Howe Street.

The survey has now closed. Thank you to those who took the time to complete the survey.

Council will review the feedback received through this process and combined with an assessment of road safety impacts, determine a preferred option, and incorporate into a grant funding application.