Castlemaine and Harcourt wombat crossings

  • Project typePlanning, design and construction
  • Project scheduleDesign phase on schedule
  • Completion Date28 February 2027

Mount Alexander Shire Council is delivering a package of pedestrian safety improvements to create safer, more accessible streets for people walking in Castlemaine and Harcourt.

The project focuses on installing wombat crossings at locations where previous studies, adopted masterplans, community feedback and observed pedestrian activity have highlighted a clear need for safer crossing points. These upgrades will strengthen pedestrian priority and improve safety in high‑use local areas.

Location map

Castlemaine 
Proposed location of wombat crossings in Castlemaine

 

Harcourt

Proposed location for wombat crossing in Harcourt

 

Funding

Council has secured $2 million through the Safe Local Roads and Streets Program. The Department of Transport and Planning, in partnership with the Transport Accident Commission, developed this $200 million program to support Victorian councils in planning and delivering road safety infrastructure on local roads.

All proposed projects were required to be submitted to the TAC for assessment and approval, with strict program guidelines determining what could be funded. These guidelines allow works only on council‑managed roads. As a result, upgrades cannot be constructed directly on Department of Transport and Planning (DTP) arterial roads such as Barker Street and Forest Street. Designs at these locations will focus on council‑managed approaches and adjoining streets.

In addition to the wombat crossing designs, funding has also been allocated to the supply and installation of 40 km/h speed‑reduction signage within the Castlemaine CBD. This complementary project aims to further improve safety for people walking and moving through the town centre.

 

What is a wombat crossing?

A wombat crossing is a raised pedestrian zebra crossing built on a flat‑top platform that sits generally flush with the footpath. This design slows approaching traffic while improving pedestrian visibility and accessibility. Often called “wombat crossings” because the raised hump resembles a wombat, these crossings feature a central raised platform, white painted zebra stripes and kerb extensions that narrow the road width to further calm traffic.

Raised Priority Crossings make it easier for older people, children, wheelchair users and people with vision or mobility impairments to move safely across the road. They reduce the need for multiple kerb ramps, minimise trip hazards and clearly signal to drivers that pedestrians have priority. By elevating people walking and reducing vehicle speeds, wombat crossings provide a safer, more accessible crossing point for all members of the community.

Vehicle view of wombat crossing on Mostyn Street

Figure 1. Mostyn Street Wombat Crossing

 

 

Design considerations

The seven wombat crossings have been strategically located to address known safety issues and improve pedestrian access to shops, services and community destinations. Site selection has been informed by:

  • Outcomes from previous movement and place studies
  • Customer and community requests
  • Identified safety concerns and pedestrian behaviour
  • The requirement to avoid works on DTP‑managed arterial roads

Concept designs have been prepared for all locations, and detailed design work is now underway. These designs incorporate accessibility standards, traffic‑calming features, sightline improvements, drainage considerations and integration with the surrounding streetscape.

 

Project locations

Project locations include:

  • Market Street, between Harmony Way and High Street
  • Barker Street and Templeton Street intersections (council‑managed approaches only)
  • Barker Street and Mostyn Street intersections (council‑managed approaches only)
  • Hargraves Street and Forest Street intersections (council‑managed approaches only)

Copy of draft concept plans (these are subject to refinement) can be found in supporting documentation section of this page.  

 

Where are we now?

Council is working with its design consultant to finalise the detailed designs for all seven wombat crossings. This stage includes site investigations, surveying and ongoing collaboration with the TAC and DTP to ensure the designs align with Safe System principles and meet all program requirements. Engagement with nearby residents and businesses will continue as the designs progress and the project moves toward construction.

Project timeline

  • 2025–2026: Finalisation of designs and preparation for construction
  • 2026–2027: Construction of wombat crossings across Castlemaine and Harcourt & installation of 40km signage
  • Construction completion: All works are scheduled to be completed by 3 February 2027