The gap between Axedale river reserve (where the rail trail currently ends) and the pedestrian bridge over the Campaspe on the other side of the highway is currently closed while a tunnel is constructed under the road.

Preparation work started on 6 January 2014 and over the weekend Saturday 11 January and Sunday 12 January the highway is closed. This will allow the pre-formed concrete underpass to be put in place. The remainder of the work – resealing the road, concreting ramps and so on will be done during the following week.

Machinery digging through the bank of the highway

The digging starts: the process digs right through the highway. (Photo: Ken Hanson)

Large square sections of pre-formed concrete tunnel

The tunnel: pre-formed concrete awaits installation. This forms the tunnel under the road. (Photo: Ken Hanson)

Digging machinery breaks a hole right through the highway

Breakthrough: the space for the underpass is dug out. Next step will be installation of the concrete tunnel. (Photo: Ken Hanson)

Advisory signs in the area give alternative routes for various vehicles. See also the City of Greater Bendigo’s public notice about the closure.