Feedback received from local contractors during an industry workshop is set to shape the Western Australian Government’s search for a Tonkin Highway Extension contractor.
Industry feedback will help inform the style of contract in a bid to maximise opportunities for local jobs and contractors, with more than 3,500 jobs expected to be created over the life of the project.
Extending Tonkin Highway from Thomas Road to South Western Highway will provide improved access to growing residential areas like Byford, industrial areas, the airport and the future Outer Harbour.
The preliminary concept for the project is for 14km of four-lane new dual carriageway road, with other upgrades to include:
- A grade separated interchange at Bishop Road
- Upgrade of the current intersection at Thomas Road and Tonkin Highway
- New intersections constructed at Orton Road, Mundijong Road and South Western Highway
- New bridges over freight rail line, Perth to Bunbury passenger rail line and Wright Road
A shared use path will also be built along the eastern side of the project, while an underpass for horse riders, cyclists and pedestrians will be constructed under Tonkin Highway at Abernethy Road.
Western Australian Premier, Mark McGowan, said, “Suburbs like Byford, Mundijong, Oakford and Cardup are popular for young families and hotspots for future job growth – it’s important we build the infrastructure for tomorrow.
“This project – along with the METRONET Byford Rail Extension – will provide the fast-growing south-eastern suburbs with the infrastructure they deserve, connecting locals to jobs and education opportunities.
“These works will improve safety, provide transport access and new freight connections for the thousands of people living and working in Perth’s south-eastern suburbs.”
The last extension of Tonkin Highway to Thomas Road was completed in 2005 and there has been significant population growth in the time since.
State environmental approvals for the Tonkin Extension project under the Environmental Protection Act are already in place, while the Federal environmental assessment is underway.
Western Australian Transport Minister, Rita Saffioti, said, “Projects like this afford local families more choice. In coming years, locals will have the choice of using the METRONET train line, driving the improved road network or riding on the cycle paths being built.
“The Tonkin Extension also unlocks key industrial land at the West Mundijong Industrial Area and Cardup Business park, attracting more local jobs with quality transport connections to the freight line and future Outer Harbour.
“We anticipate more than 3,500 jobs will be created over the life of this project, providing a welcome economic boost.”
Geotechnical works, site investigations, groundwater modelling, traffic and noise modelling assessments, and stakeholder consultation are underway to help inform the final project scope. Meanwhile, the urban design and landscape framework is also progressing.
The project is jointly funded by the Federal ($404 million) and Western Australian ($101 million) Governments.
