The creation of a new corridor between Paget and the Peak Downs Highway is touted to improve freight, tourism and road transport between Mackay and Moranbah. More importantly, the creation of the Walkerston Bypass will offer a safer and more efficient link by reducing congestion issues posed by the existing Peak Downs Highway.
The project is one step closer to commencing, with the construction contract for the $186.6 million piece of infrastructure being awarded to Fulton Hogan Construction Pty Ltd. It is expected to be completed during 2024.
The Walkerston Bypass will receive up to $149.28 million in funding from the Australian Government and up to $37.32 million from the Queensland Government.
Member for Mackay Julieanne Gilbert said the 10.6km link will follow Stockroute Road from the Bruce Highway before it deviates south at the western end and joins the Peak Downs Highway, ensuring heavy vehicles are diverted away from the Walkerston town centre.
“This is a huge win for the Walkerston community making it much safer and more accessible for residents and motorists,” Mrs Gilbert said.
Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Infrastructure, Transport and Regional Development Barnaby Joyce said this milestone pushes the project closer to reality.
“This project will deliver a new two-lane highway connection between the Peak Downs Highway, west of Walkerston and the Mackay Ring Road, near Paget,” the Deputy Prime Minister said.
“Once complete, Queenslanders will enjoy more efficient, safer journeys. Additionally, it will boost the region’s economy, supporting an estimated 235 jobs during construction.
“This is another example of how the Australian Government is getting the job done and delivering the infrastructure Queenslanders need through our record $110 billion infrastructure plan.”
Queensland Transport and Main Roads Minister Mark Bailey said the 10.6 kilometre link between the Bruce and Peak Downs highways would divert heavy vehicles away from Walkerston.
“The bypass will improve safety for local residents, by removing heavy vehicle traffic out of the town's centre and away from local schools and businesses,” Minister Bailey said.
“Construction of the Walkerston Bypass is an important step towards improving efficiency from Mackay to the mining communities in the Bowen Basin.”
Federal Member for Capricornia Michelle Landry said the project complements other road projects currently underway in the region.
“Since 2013 the Australian Government has committed to delivering more than $14 billion in regional road improvements across Queensland, supporting more than 30,000 jobs and boosting the economy,” Ms Landry said.
“We have already delivered the $497.3 million Mackay Ring Road, with a $397.9 million federal commitment.
“The Australian Government will continue to invest in and deliver the road infrastructure projects that matter to locals, tourists, businesses and freight operators.”
The Walkerston Bypass is scheduled for completion in late 2024.\
Member for Mackay Julieanne Gilbert announcing the Walkerston Bypass tender has been awarded to Fulton Hogan Construction. Image supplied: Julieanne Gilbert
Publishers Indemnity. Any individual or entity that places advertising, supplies copy material, or submits editorial content to Core Life Publishing agrees and undertakes to ensure that all such material:- Does not infringe upon any copyright, trademark, or other intellectual property rights;- Is free from any content that could be considered defamatory, libelous, or slanderous;- Does not infringe upon any rights related to privacy or breach of confidence;- Contains no obscene, indecent, or otherwise unlawful material;- Complies fully with the Trade Practices Act and all other applicable laws, regulations, or statutes.Furthermore, by submitting or placing such material, these individuals or entities agree to indemnify and hold harmless the publisher, Core Publishing and Events Pty Ltd, and/or its agents from and against any and all investigations, claims, demands, liabilities, damages, costs, or judgments arising out of or in connection with the material provided. All material is believed to be accurate at the time of printing and remains the copyright of Core Publishing and Events Pty Ltd.
© 2024 Mackay and Whitsunday Life Pty Ltd.
