On this page
Works to stabilise the Back Creek Trail start in late September. We’re working with engineers, Melbourne Water and a specialist contractor to carry out works to restore:
- the creek bank and prevent further erosion
- the path to a safe condition for everyone to use.
We expect to reopen the area to the community in late 2025, weather permitting.
How this may impact you
- The path will remain closed and the current detour route will stay in place. The detour route passes through Cornell Street and Through Road.
- Fencing has been installed around the construction site. No access is available to the community.
- You may hear construction noise on weekdays between 7 am and 3 pm, and some Saturdays (excluding public holidays).
We acknowledge that the delays from the wet weather and complex works have caused frustration in the community. We thank you for your patience and understanding as we’ve worked to resolve this issue as efficiently and safely as possible.
Background
In September 2024, a section of the Back Creek Trail from Cornell Street to Riversdale Road was closed due to the worsening condition of creek erosion.
Creek erosion can happen when water wears away the soil and rock along the creek bed and banks. It can make the surrounding areas unstable and potentially cause further damage.
Our community’s safety is our top priority, which is why we decided to close the affected site while we investigated.
In April we shared our plans to repair the erosion along Back Creek Trail. We anticipated construction would be underway by June but further investigations showed the erosion to be more complex than it first appeared.
Winter rain and changing water levels made conditions unpredictable and impacted the progress of works.
Contractors advised that spring and summer will provide safer, more suitable conditions for the work. Warmer weather, lower water levels and drier ground will help crews complete the repairs more efficiently.
Timeline
| When | Stage | Description |
|---|---|---|
| September 2024 | We closed the Back Creek Trail between Cornell Street and Riversdale Road to investigate creek erosion and keep the community safe. | We put a detour in place until restorative works are completed. |
| April 2025 | We finalised a design with engineers. | This design will fix the current erosion and withstand future flooding. |
| June – July 2025 | We received submissions from specialist contractors to carry out the works. | We are reviewing submissions and will share a start date on this page after we appoint a contractor. |
| July 2025 | We worked with Melbourne Water to progress permits. | We need permits to provide safe access to the creek for construction. |
| August 2025 | We appointed a contractor to start the works. | The contractor specialises in fixing erosions. |
| Late September 2025 | Works start. | Works will fix the erosion and make the path safe and stable into the future. |
| End of 2025 | Works are expected to end, weather permitting. | The path will reopen to the community when works are finished. |
More information
Please contact us if you have any questions. Call (03) 9278 4444 or email [email protected].