Ring Road level crossing to close temporarily

The City of Ballarat will temporarily close a section of Ring Road from 23 January 2026, removing vehicle and pedestrian access across the railway line.  

This closure is a key part of delivering the $55 million Ballarat Freight Hub project, which is scheduled for completion in late 2026. When complete, the freight hub will support operators and producers and encourage mode-shift from road to rail. Without the Ring Road discontinuance, freight trains entering and exiting the freight hub would block the road, leading to lengthy delays and congestion for motorists.  

Access will still be available to all businesses. Barriers will be installed on Friday, 23 January 2026 to temporarily close Ring Road as a through road.  

The walking and cycling crossing will also be closed at the same time. Pedestrians and cyclists will be required to use the Link Road shared path to cross the railway line and access the Skipton Rail Trail.  

There are existing crossing points at the north end of the intersection of Ring Road and the Link Road, with a new crossing point to be constructed across Ring Road just prior to Gregory Street.  

Vehicles will be required to use the Link Road or alternative routes.

The City of Ballarat will consider a permanent discontinuance of Ring Road on either side of the level railway crossing in early 2026.

Construction of the Freight Hub will commence between mid-February and early March 2026. Once the Freight Hub works are completed, road works will be undertaken to formalise the road discontinuance.

Community members seeking further information about the freight hub can visit the Australian Government website for Regional Development. For information about the temporary road closure, contact the City of Ballarat Customer Service Team on 5320 5500.