Works begin on SA's $260m Augusta Highway duplication project

Works begin on SA’s $260m Augusta Highway duplication project

The project will duplicate the Augusta Highway from he new Copper Coast Overpass to Lochiel.

Major works are officially underway on one of the largest infrastructure projects ever undertaken in regional South Australia – the Augusta Highway Duplication Project.

The $260 million project will see the highway duplicated between just north of the new Copper Coast Overpass and Lochiel to reduce travel time, improve safety and increase freight productivity.

The works will build on existing investments to duplicate priority sections of the highway from Port Wakefield to Port Augusta.

CIMIC Group company CPB Contractors has been selected by the South Australian Government to deliver this stage of the duplication project.

The Australian and South Australian governments are jointly funding the upgrade on an 80:20 basis.

Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Infrastructure, Transport and Regional Development Barnaby Joyce said the Australian Government was investing in the infrastructure South Australians need.

“Once completed, the duplicated highway will ensure faster, safer travel for families and freight, while boosting economic growth and supporting around 330 jobs during construction,” the Deputy Prime Minister said.

Premier of South Australia Steven Marshall said the vital project forms part of the SA Government’s $17.9 billion infrastructure spend rolling out across the state.

“We’re building what matters for South Australians and that includes investing heavily in our regional roads,” Premier Marshall said.

Works will initially start just north of the new Copper Coast Overpass and move progressively along the highway. The project is expected to be completed in 2024.

In addition to the works to duplicate the Augusta Highway between Port Wakefield and Lochiel, planning for future duplication between Port Pirie and Crystal Brook is currently underway to inform future funding discussions between the Australian and South Australian governments.

The Port Wakefield to Port Augusta (PW2PA) Alliance has been awarded the contract to deliver the project.

Speed and lane restrictions will be in place while works are carried out.