Major Closures on Ballin Drive and Ruthven Street to Impact Toowoomba Traffic This Weekend

Significant Roadworks and Closures in the Central District

Toowoomba residents and weekend commuters are advised to prepare for significant traffic disruptions starting today, Saturday, 7 February 2026. The Toowoomba Regional Council has announced several major road closures within the central district to facilitate essential infrastructure maintenance and water main upgrades. Motorists are encouraged to plan their journeys in advance and allow for extra travel time, particularly in the Centenary Heights and East Toowoomba areas.

Ballin Drive Closure (Centenary Heights)

Starting this morning, Ballin Drive will be fully closed to all traffic between Mackenzie Street and Stenner Street. This closure is required to allow for critical water main works and is expected to remain in place until late March 2026. Detours are currently active, directing traffic through surrounding local streets. While resident access will be maintained where possible, through-traffic is urged to avoid the area to prevent bottlenecks near the Mackenzie Street intersection. Please follow all posted signage and traffic management directions.

Afternoon Closure on Ruthven Street

A major disruption is scheduled for late this afternoon on one of the city's primary thoroughfares. From 4:00 PM today, Saturday, 7 February, Ruthven Street will be closed to all vehicles between Herries Street and Telford Street. This closure is also for water main works and will remain in effect until midnight on Sunday, 8 February. Given Ruthven Street's role as a central artery for the CBD, significant delays are expected during the Saturday evening peak and throughout Sunday. Motorists should utilize Hume Street or Neil Street as north-south alternatives.

Public Transport and Stop Changes

Commuters utilizing public transport should be aware of permanent changes in Harristown. As of earlier this week, the bus stops on Phyllis Street have been permanently closed. Passengers who previously used these stops are advised to check the Translink website or app for the nearest alternative boarding points. Additionally, while the major stop closures on Bridge and Hillside Streets are not scheduled until later in the month, some minor delays to local route 907 may occur today due to the increased traffic volume on detour routes.

General Highway Conditions

Current reports indicate that major highways serving the region, including the Warrego, New England, and Gore Highways, remain largely clear with no major incidents reported as of early this morning. However, as the Toowoomba Range can experience rapid changes in visibility and traffic flow, drivers are reminded to monitor the latest updates from the Department of Transport and Main Roads. Stay safe on the roads and consider using the Inner Track or bypass routes if you are traveling through the city rather than into the CBD.