Vic man arrested during road protest

An East West Link protester is expected to be charged for allegedly blocking traffic on a major Melbourne roadway after clashing with authorities.

The 37-year-old man was arrested on Thursday and has been released from custody, but is expected to be charged on summons at a later date, police said.

Police are reviewing evidence with a view to prosecuting any person for relevant offences.

A police presence remains at two drilling sites with 40 protesters turning out to picket a test drill site on Alexandra Parade in Fitzroy on Friday.

Scuffles between police and protesters escalated on Thursday when protests spilled onto the road and police were forced to remove protesters who were blocking traffic.

Acting Superintendent Bernie Edwards said police are disappointed with protester behaviour.

".. protesters engaged in unacceptable behaviour, including going on to roadways, disrupting traffic and causing significant safety risks to drivers, themselves and police," he said.

Acting Supt Edwards said protesters who break the law can expect to be prosecuted.

"We will not accept, nor will we tolerate, this behaviour," he said.

"We again ask these people to protest peacefully and respect the rights of the public to go about their business unhindered," he said.

There have been no injuries to police members so far.

Protest leader Anthony Main said the group is hoping to push the project into the next state election.

"People are angry. They want the government to put the decision to the election," Mr Main said.

He said police were using heavy-handed tactics on protesters and that action may continue on Saturday.