The Queensland Government has officially awarded the contract for early works of the Stage 1 South package of the Coomera Connector.
Winslow Infrastructure has won the tender for the early works program, which will make the site construction-ready with minor vegetation clearing, relocation of some service utilities, bulk earthworks and preloading activities to be undertaken to support the next stage of construction.
The works are expected to begin in July 2024 and be completed by late-2025.
Areas south of the Nerang River will be the focus of these works, where new embankment and excess material will be placed on the existing ground for approximately six months to consolidate and increase the bearing capacity of the underlying soft soils.
Once settled, the excess embankment will be removed and ready for this stage of the Coomera Connector motorway.
The Federal and Queensland Governments have committed a total of $3.026 billion to plan and construct the Coomera Connector Stage 1 between Coomera and Nerang.
This includes an additional $864 million committed by both governments to deliver the project.
This investment is estimated to support an average of 1,000 direct jobs over the life of the project.
Stage 1 of the Coomera Connector is expected to open progressively to traffic from late 2025.
Federal Treasurer, Jim Chalmers, said that the Federal Government is committed to investing in and delivering infrastructure projects that will better the lives of South East Queenslanders.
“The additional funding by both the Federal and Queensland government, will ensure the Coomera Connector is built and delivered to meet the needs of Gold Coast residents now and into the future,” Mr Chalmers said.
“We are one step closer to starting construction on the southern end of the Coomera Connector, which will not only improve travel times for motorists but also provide safer journeys and support the growing region of South East Queensland.
“Both residents and tourists to South East Queensland will benefit for years to come from this work funded by the Federal and Queensland governments.”
Federal Minister for Infrastructure, Transport, Regional Development and Local Government, Catherine King, said that the Federal Government is investing a further $431.7 million, making sure the Gold Coast and South East Queensland have the infrastructure needed to connect them to opportunities in a faster, more reliable way.
“We’re delivering the infrastructure – built by Australians – that improves safety, revitalises regions, and ensures Australia is well placed to compete in the new, net zero economy,” Ms King said.
Deputy Premier and acting Minister for Transport, Cameron Dick, said that getting works started on the Stage 1 South package of the Coomera Connector has remained a priority for the Queensland Government.
“That’s why we committed additional funds to get boots and machines on the ground laying the foundations for main construction works,” Mr Dick said.
“It’s all systems go as we continue to invest in Queensland’s biggest decade of infrastructure delivery – Queensland’s Big Build – generating more jobs, improved services, protecting our lifestyle and growing our economy.”
Minister for Housing and State Member for Gaven, Meagan Scanlon, said that it’s great to see this contract awarded so works can get underway.
“Our community knows how frustrating the congestion on the Pacific Motorway (M1) is,” Ms Scanlon said.
“This is a step forward to fixing the issue by offering an alternative route.
“With Queensland growing, we’re building a road that will better connect our local communities and future proof the lifestyle we all love in South East Queensland. This new motorway will help to get local motorists home sooner and safer.”
Image: Owen Derrick Photography/shutterstock.com
