Permanent vehicle access restriction - section of Hoddle St Howlong

Permanent vehicle access restriction - section of Hoddle St Howlong

Published on 16 October 2025

Federation Council has made the decision to permanently restrict vehicular access to the unformed section of Hoddle Street, Howlong, located between Orchard Street and Ashford Road. This measure is being taken primarily due to growing safety concerns and the continued unauthorised use of the area as a thoroughfare, which has led to significant deterioration of the ground.

The current deteriorated and irregular state of the unformed road - which runs adjacent to the Howlong Golf Club now presents a significant safety risk to all users. This has been tragically highlighted by a serious injury sustained by a cyclist at the eastern end of the street in February 2025. Furthermore, there have been reports of near misses at the Hoddle Street and Ashford Road intersection.

Federation Council Mayor, Cr Cheryl Cook said the continued damage from vehicles, including four-wheel drives, combined with the absence of formal drainage, means the area is deemed unsafe for vehicle use.

"Restricting vehicular access is a necessary step to reduce the risk of further crashes or incidents," Mayor Cook said.

"This restriction is necessary as Council's current resources are constrained by a substantial backlog on constructed roads, preventing further repair work on this unmade section. It is important to note that this decision will not exclude the use of the unmade road reserve by pedestrians and cyclists. Access to the Howlong Cemetery will continue to be available via the sealed Ashford Road."

While Council has no current plans to formally construct this section of road, this decision will not limit the future opportunity to fully construct Hoddle Street between Orchard Street and Ashford Road if circumstances change and funding becomes available.

Residents immediately adjacent to the location will be directly advised, and the decision will be communicated on the Council website, social media, and in the Corowa Free Press and Yarrawonga Chronicle Snippets print media advertising. Installation of the permanent access barriers is set to commence in the coming weeks. Council thank you for your cooperation in this important matter concerning community safety.

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