AN 80km/h speed limit has been placed on the notorious Princes Highway rail overpass section at Garvoc.
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VicRoads imposed the new speed zone on Tuesday due to the overpass’ asphalt surface being riddled with undulations.
The authority's regional director Mark Koliba said the change had been made to improve safety but gave no indication of when the 80km/h limit would be lifted.
However, the continuing deterioration of the section has angered Great South Coast chairman and Moyne Shire councillor Colin Ryan.
"It is a poor reflection on VicRoads that the only remedy for poor roads is to lower the speed limit," he said.
"While this may result in a minor inconvenience for some drivers it is only a small section of the highway that falls within this (new) limit.
"We've been lobbying successive governments for action. For councils across the Great South Coast, upgrading the Princes Highway west is one of our main priorities.
“It's time to do something"
Mr Koliba said pavement restoration works were completed on approaches to the rail overpass in 2007 but were showing signs of "minor wear".
"The road is still suitable for use, but with an 80km/h speed limit," he said.
"Safety of drivers is VicRoads’ highest priority and we will continue to consider any potential improvements to roads in the south-west region as we work to increase the safety and travelling experience for all users."
Earlier this year VicRoads acknowledged drivers' concerns and said regular inspections were carried out with "maintenance solutions as required".
Back in November 2006 former Liberal premier Ted Baillieu promised the overpass would be resurfaced as part of a major upgrade of the Princes Highway west.
"The overpass is narrow and the road pavement badly worn," he said at the time.
Earlier this week Cr Ryan and other Great South Coast representatives were in Canberra to discuss the highway issue with Deputy Prime Minister and Infrastructure Minister Warren Truss, who recognised it as an important route.
Cr Ryan said the deputation was also told smaller rural councils would find it easier to get grants under the next allocation of regional development grants.
