Phase two of the Albany Ring Road project, between Lancaster Road and Princess Royal Drive, has reached a major milestone with the release of the updated concept designs for the new ring road interchanges.
The designs have been released following extensive community feedback and feature a new interchange at South Coast Highway. The plans also include restoring access between George Street and the South Coast Highway.
The construction will also include the removal of an access ramp to the north and south of the interchange, as well as new roundabouts. A single bridge structure linking Hanrahan Road to Frenchman Bay Road will pass over the Albany Ring Road and the freight rail line.
The Albany Ring Road will provide a freight route of 11.5 kilometres around the City of Albany for the transport of grain, fertiliser, wood chips and other goods to the Port of Albany. It will take heavy vehicles off existing roads, reducing congestion and enhancing safety for local and tourist traffic.
Construction for the first phase of the Albany Ring Road, compriseing a new interchange at Albany Highway and extension of the Ring Road south to Lancaster Road, began in September 2020, after Decmil was selected as contractor for the project.
Start of second phase construction from Lancaster Road to Princess Royal Drive has been pending plans finalisation.
Feedback from the community has led to design changes to ensure that heritage-listed World War Two fuel oil storage tanks to the north of the alignment would not be affected. The updated design has also evolved to reduce the project’s environmental footprint, with the new interchange design avoiding an environmentally sensitive habitat.
Western Australian Transport Minister Rita Saffioti said the Ring Road will take heavy vehicles out of residential areas and away from the centre of town, improving safety and amenity for residents and visitors to the area.
“It’s great to see construction activity progressing, generating new jobs and contracting opportunities for local businesses,” Saffioti said.
“The updated concept designs for the latter stages of the project were developed in response to feedback from local residents and environmental groups, and we look forward to construction in these locations commencing shortly.”
Major construction on the project is continuing following the installation of mechanically stabilised earth bridge walls on either side of Albany Highway, paving the way for bridge beam installation in October.
Construction of the section of the Ring Road from South Coast Highway to Princess Royal Drive is expected to begin by the end of the year, subject to environmental and regulatory approvals.
The Federal Government has committed $140 million to the $175 million project, with the Western Australian Government committing the remaining funds.
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