WORKS started to build the first section of the Margaret River Perimeter Road on Friday.
The $4.7 million stage one project will involve 1.8 kilometres of road to run from Bussell Highway to the south of Rosa Brook Road. It is expected to be completed by April next year.
Transport minister Dean Nalder and regional development Minister Terry Redman announced the start of construction on Friday afternoon, following weeks of vegetation clearing.
“This work marks the first step towards providing an alternative route for heavy vehicles around Margaret River so that we can enhance safety for pedestrians and local traffic in the commercial and tourist precinct, as well as reduce congestion,” Mr Nalder said.
“Margaret River has become a world class tourist destination for a range of international events, and it’s critical that we separate inter-regional and local traffic for the safety of locals and visitors to the town.”
Mr Redman said improvements to the Margaret River Perimeter Road would support new industrial and commercial development opportunities in the town and wider region.
“Critical infrastructure such as this facilitates sustainable economic growth and development in regional Western Australia and I am pleased to see Royalties for Regions play a part,” he said.
Stage one construction will be delivered by Main Roads’ integrated service provider, Fulton Hogan.
The seven-kilometre perimeter road will be constructed in two stages, with the second stage involving the remaining 5.2km from Rosa Brook Road to Bussell Highway north of town.
Read about the history of the Perimeter Road planning here.
