Council welcomes $17m election commitment for region’s roads

A $9 million commitment has been made to extend John St in Kilmore and install traffic lights where it meets Kilmore-Lancefield Rd.

A further $8 million has been pledged to install traffic lights at the High St and Hamilton St intersection in Broadford.

“These are two projects our community has asked for, so we welcome this commitment to both,” Mitchell Shire Mayor John Dougall said.

Extending John St would give Kilmore residents a second route for local trips, allowing people to reach shops without driving down Sydney St.

The Kilmore Structure Plan identifies John St as a critical link as the town grows.

Once complete, the road will connect Clarke St with the shopping precinct and Kilmore-Lancefield Rd, complementing the new roundabout at Wandong Rd, which is under construction.

“We can’t stress enough how important John St is to the town. This is about connecting Kilmore. We’re ready to get on with it,” Cr Dougall said.

The High St and Hamilton St intersection sits at the foot of the bridge raised by the Inland Rail project, with residents raising concerns about the gradient.

Council has supported the Broadford Residents Action Group in its advocacy for traffic lights at the site.

“Safety at this intersection is a priority for our community in Broadford,” Cr Dougall said.

“This is what listening and advocating together can achieve. We thank BRAG for leading the way.”

The Department of Transport and Planning has already approved the design for the traffic lights at John St and Kilmore-Lancefield Rd.

However, the remaining sections of John St require private land and developer contributions, meaning timing will depend on land negotiations and the progress of new subdivisions.

Council is calling on all parties and candidates to support both projects ahead of the state election. For more information about council's priorities, visit mitchellshire.vic.gov.au/council/advocacy/2026-state-election-priorities-and-commitments