The Western Australian Government has awarded the third and final contract for the $1.12 billion NorthLink WA road project to CPB Contractors.
This will be the northernmost section of the project connecting Ellenbrook and Muchea where it will link up with both the Brand Highway heading up the coast to Geraldton and Carnarvon, and the Great Northern Highway heading to Port Hedland via the inland route through Mount Magnet and Newman.
"NorthLink WA is a vitally important project, generating about 1,000 jobs," said WA Transport Minister Bill Marmion.
"The final section involves construction of a free-flowing dual carriageway between Ellenbrook and Muchea, with new interchanges at Stock Road, Neaves Road and Brand Highway. Traffic congestion will be vastly improved as drivers will be able to bypass up to 16 sets of traffic lights and two railway crossings. Safety issues will be addressed at four of the State's most dangerous intersections, with more than 150 kilometres of road safety barriers to protect vehicle occupants and separate oncoming traffic."
Minister Marmion said construction is already well underway on Stage 1, Stage 2 is commencing and Stage 3 will begin by mid-2017, so we are certainly on target for project completion in 2019," the Minister said.
Adolfo Valderas, CEO of CPB's parent group CIMIC said they were committed to working with their clients to deliver sustainable transport solutions that support regional development and industry, as well as communities
“The NorthLink WA northern section will provide a vital road portal for traffic and freight movements to commercial and industrial areas north of Perth, as well as improved safety, reduced congestion and faster travel times for road users,” said Valderas.
He said the company has previously undertaken a number of major roads initiatives for Main Roads Western Australia, most recently leading the Alliance that delivered the $1 billion Gateway WA Perth Airport and Freight Access project.
[An artist's impression of the interchange near Muchea of the NorthLinkWA, Brand Highway and Great Northern Highway. Image: Main Roads WA]