The Western Australian Government has started to renegotiate the $440 million Roe 8 contract, following its decision to not proceed with the Perth Freight Link project.
Main Roads has been directed to work with the Roe 8 Alliance partners to begin negotiations and bring forward alternative projects that will reduce congestion across Perth suburbs.
The Western Australian State Government is managing the renegotiation process to ensure any costs are kept to a minimum, existing jobs are secured and new job opportunities are created in the process.
As part of the revised scope of the Roe 8 contract, the project site in Coolbellup will be carefully cleared of any contaminants by the project team before a community-based revegetation program will be rolled out.
Western Australian Premier Mark McGowan said, “We were elected with a clear mandate and we are getting on with the job, delivering our election commitments.
“Our decision to not proceed with the deeply flawed Perth Freight Link project was carefully thought through in the long-term interests of all West Australians.
“This project never made planning, economic or environmental sense – so today we are righting the wrong and moving forward with our plan to create new jobs and bust congestion across Perth.”
Transport Minister Rita Saffioti said, “It is our aim for the renegotiation to provide new employment opportunities for the Roe 8 workforce and new road projects that deliver the best outcomes for West Australians.
“We are proposing to bring forward some important upgrades to our road network that will improve safety and reduce journey times in our suburbs.”
Ms Saffioti said the scope and timing of these new projects will be announced once the renegotiation process with the Roe 8 contractor is complete.
“We also recognise the passion felt for this area by some of the local community and they will have the opportunity to participate in the rehabilitation of the site.
“The rehabilitation plan will be administered between the contractor and Main Roads initially and once the site is clear from any contaminants an organised community program, led by the State Government, will revegetate the site,” Ms Saffioti said.
