Eastern freeway roadworks drive away customers
Updated: 6 days ago
Reporter: Charlotte Dyer.
Businesses in Melbourne’s east are struggling with disruptions caused by the Eastern Freeway upgrades, with one Balwyn North restaurant owner reporting customer numbers have fallen by more than 50 per cent since roadworks began.
Greekery co-owner Elaheh Hashemi said congestion near the Doncaster Road exit had made it increasingly difficult for customers and delivery drivers to reach her restaurant.
“More than half of our walk-in customers are gone,” Ms Hashemi said.
She also criticised the timing of major road closures, saying they often occurred during peak trading periods for restaurants.
“Friday is the busiest day for restaurants, yet many of the complete road closures are planned on Fridays,” Ms Hashemi said.
The business co-owner said customers and delivery drivers were checking travel times before heading to Balwyn North, with some deciding to avoid the area or cancel their orders because of traffic delays.
“Even our loyal customers can’t come sometimes,” she said. “I’ve received phone orders where customers later call back to cancel because they’re stuck in traffic.”
Ms Hashemi said the disruption was adding to the pressure on local businesses already dealing with rising operating costs and the broader cost-of-living crisis.
“All our costs are still the same. We’re still paying rent, council fees and taxes, but business has dropped dramatically.”
According to Victoria’s Big Build, workers are installing permanent traffic signals at the intersection of Doncaster Road and Gardenia and Greythorn roads as part of upgrades to the Doncaster Road interchange.
The works involve overnight lane closures, reduced speed limits and temporary road closures, which are expected to continue until mid-September.
Victoria’s Big Build says the Eastern Freeway upgrades are expected to open in 2028. The project aims to reduce congestion and travel times, improve safety and connect communities.
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