Safety work begins on $61.8 million Perth to Breadalbane duplication

Preliminary works began this week on the $61.8 million Perth to Breadalbane duplication project in Tasmania, the largest safety upgrade as part of the state’s $500 million Midland Highway 10 Year Action Plan.

Federal Minister for Major Projects Paul Fletcher said in a statement that the duplication is a priority project that will improve safety connectivity and efficiency on the key section of the Midland Highway.

“The primary objective of the Midland Highway 10 Year Action Plan is to bring the full length of the Highway up to a minimum 3-star AusRAP safety rating.

“These works will create a divided dual-lane highway from Perth to connect with the existing four-lanes just north of the Breadalbane roundabout, creating a safer highway for motorists.”

The section of highway reportedly carries more than 12,000 vehicles on an average day and provides a vital connection for freight travelling to and from Tasmania’s northern ports.

Tenders for the main construction contract closed on 2 December 2015, and following the appointment of a contractor, main works are expected to commence in early 2016.