Draft Road Management Plan 2025-2029 open for community feedback
19th May 2025
A refresh of Colac Otway’s Road Management Plan will aim to spot defects early, cutting maintenance costs while ensuring safer, smoother roads.
Colac Otway Shire Council has released the draft Road Management Plan 2025-2029 for public comment.
The new plan puts a strong focus on proactive inspections and maintenance to prevent issues with roads, footpaths and drains, as well as clearer timelines and visual aids.
Council manages 1625km of roads, including 566km of sealed roads and 1059km of unsealed (gravel) roads, as well as drainage, footpaths, rail trails, bridges, parking areas and other road-related infrastructure.
The draft plan includes detailed timelines for responding to road defects, and proactive inspections to keep our roads, drainage and paths in top condition.
The draft Road Management Plan 2025-2029 is open public comment for six weeks, with submissions closing Friday 27 June 2025.
The plan is available on Council's website and hard copies are available at Council's Customer Service Centres in Colac and Apollo Bay.
Community members can attend drop-in sessions in Colac at COPACC (95-97 Gellibrand Street) on Wednesday 28 May between 2pm and 4pm and Apollo Bay Bowls Club (6 Moore Street) on Wednesday 4 June between 2pm and 4pm to learn more and to provide feedback on the plan.
People have the opportunity to speak to their written submission at an upcoming Submissions Committee meeting. Council must then adopt a final version of the plan no later than 31 October 2025.
To read the report and make a submission go to colacotway.vic.gov.au/Community-Consultations/Road-Management-Plan-Review-2025-Have-Your-Say.
Quotes may be attributed to Doug McNeill, General Manager Infrastructure and Environment:
“Colac Otway residents are active about advocating for high-quality roads, timely repairs and proactive maintenance.
“With increased inspections and maintenance, the new plan aims to prevent issues before they arise, ensuring smoother and safer journeys for all road users, while ensuring efficient use of Council resources.
“Council encourages people to view the plan and make a submission on what you like, or what you think might be improved. Your input will help ensure we have a plan that reflects the needs and priorities of our community.”
Council Enquiries
(03) 5232 9400