The purpose of a Freeway Service Centre is to provide essential services and facilities to motorists and enable rest.
Proposals for the development of Freeway Service Centres require Town Planning permission from Local Councils (external website) in the same way as other commercial developments.
Freeway Service Centres are governed by Clause 52.30 of the Victoria Planning Provisions (external website), which outlines minimum requirements including such matters as car parking and signs.
The attainment of planning approval does not constitute an approval for access to a freeway.
Under the Road Management Act, VicRoads consent is required for road works.
Direct freeway access is subject to an Access Agreement with VicRoads.
The Access Agreement will be subject to the developer obtaining all necessary planning approvals.
Developers will, amongst other things, be required to satisfy VicRoads that the spacing of access ramps from existing interchanges and any other access ramps will not compromise the efficient and safe operation of the freeway. Exit and entry ramps must satisfy current freeway design standards. The minimum distance between ramp tapers of adjacent Service Centres will be such that advance advisory signs are not confusing to motorists.