The proposed Mordialloc Freeway in the Australian state of Victoria will provide benefits to motorists, walkers, cyclists and the environment, according to an Environment Effects Statement (EES).

The new A$375m ($264m) road is expected to cut travel times by ten minutes between the Mornington Peninsula Freeway and Dingley Bypass.

It will also free up nearby arterial and local roads by reducing the number of trucks using them by 13,000 a day.

Plans also include constructing noise walls along the new Mordialloc Freeway to decrease vehicle noise near residential areas including Dingley Village, Aspendale Gardens and Waterways.

“We’re continuing to improve the Mordialloc Freeway by including new noise walls, wildlife underpasses and implementing no-go construction zones.”

Under the proposal, care will be taken to preserve wildlife. Passes will be constructed to give animals safe access to both sides of the motorway and fencing will be erected to stop animals from accessing the road.

Twin bridge structures will be built over the Waterways wetlands, allowing light to reach vegetation underneath, and no-go zones will be implemented to minimise the impact of construction on the natural environment.

A shared user path will also be constructed along the entire length of the 9km freeway to allow a safer route for cyclists and pedestrians.

Member for Keysborough Martin Pakula said: “We’re continuing to improve the Mordialloc Freeway by including new noise walls, wildlife underpasses and implementing no-go construction zones to protect the environment while this vital connection is being built.”

Minister for roads Luke Donnellan has opened a public consultation for 30 business days to get the public’s views and suggestions on the plans.