Transport Minister Simon O’Brien said today that construction on Stage 1 of the Bunbury Port Access Road project was running on time and on budget.

Speaking in Bunbury, where the Minister was attending Regional Cabinet, Mr O’Brien said the $40.9million project was scheduled for completion by Christmas.

“The State Government is committed to delivering strategic infrastructure projects that will facilitate future economic growth,” Mr O’Brien said.

“Projects like the Bunbury Port Access road are a clear demonstration of our dedication to the South-West’s future development.

“The Liberal-National Government was elected to lead; this is in stark contrast to the former Labor government, which badly let the people of Western Australia down by wasting the economic opportunities which accompanied the boom years.”

The Minister said that Stage 1, between Picton and the port’s inner harbour, consisted of 4.5 kilometres of single carriageway; four major intersections, of which two are signalised; two bridges under the Australind Bypass; and a traffic roundabout on Estuary Drive.

“Bridgeworks carrying the road under the Australind Bypass are well advanced, with one bridge completed and the other about to receive its decking,” he said.

“Ultimately, this project is going to improve safety for all road users, while making access to the port more efficient for heavy vehicles.

“Up to 150 truck movements per day will be diverted to the new route from Robertson Drive and the Eelup roundabout, reducing the potential for conflict between big and small vehicles.”

Mr O’Brien said that funding of $2.5million had already been provided in the current year to commence preconstruction activities for Stage 2 of the project, which connects the Port Access Road to the future Bunbury Outer Ring Road.

Minister's office - 9213 6400

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