Western Australia’s $852 million Bunbury Outer Ring Road (BORR) reaches a new major milestone with Expressions of Interest (EOIs) for the design and construction of the project opened for submissions.
“Our commitment to progressing this vital piece of road infrastructure is another step in relieving pressure on Bunbury’s existing road network - separating local traffic from regional and heavy vehicles, which in turn, will support economic activity.
“The Bunbury Outer Ring Road project will improve supply chain efficiency, safety, amenity and strengthen Bunbury’s position as a regional hub and tourist destination for the South-West region,” Federal Regional Development Minister Michael McCormack said.
This project will build the remaining stages of the 27-kilometre high-standard road that connects Forrest Highway near Treendale to Bussell Highway as well as create a new road network for long-term use.
The project scope includes:
- A new four-lane rural freeway-standard road
- Grade separated interchanges at Forrest Highway, Raymond Road, South Western Highway, Wireless Road, Willinge Road, Centenary Road/Lillydale Road and Bussell Highway
- Bridge river crossings at Collie River, Ferguson River and Preston River
- Two rail crossings
- Local government road connections
- A cyclist and pedestrian path along the entire length of the road
The BORR project will focus on providing local employment and business opportunities in Bunbury and in the wider South-West region.
“Aboriginal participation will be mandated with targets put in place for both Aboriginal employment and engagement of Aboriginal businesses.
“An industry briefing will take place next month to help local businesses understand the procurement process and help us to understand local capacity and capability to ensure local companies are well placed to take up the opportunities the project will present,” Transport Minister Rita Saffioti said.
Construction on the BORR is anticipated to commence in 2021 which is subject to all necessary approvals being secured from Commonwealth and State regulatory authorities.
The project is jointly funded by the Australian and Western Australian Governments, with each contributing $681.6 million and $170.4 million respectively.
“This project will generate significant economic and employment opportunities in the South-West. It is vital that local businesses and workers benefit as much as possible from these opportunities, including through maximising local procurement and employment,” Member for Forrest Nola Marino said.
“I encourage all local businesses working in this area to attend the briefing sessions and take advantage of the opportunities this project offers,” Bunbury MLA Don Punch said.
In June of this year, the preferred route for the southern alignment of BORR was revealed. You can read more about it here.
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Source: Government of Western Australia; The West Australian; Main Roads WA
