The final stage of the Margaret River Perimeter Road has now reached practical completion, following the opening of the road to traffic in late 2018.
Transport Minister Rita Saffioti today inspected the new Margaret River Perimeter Road and unveiled the official plaque on site with local Members of Parliament, Main Roads Western Australia and the Margaret River community.
The seven-kilometre perimeter road extends from Airport Access Road north of Margaret River, linking back to Bussell Highway south of Margaret River.
The Margaret River Perimeter Road Joint Venture, comprising WBHO Infrastructure and SRG Civil Pty Ltd, completed the project, which included:
- 5.2km of perimeter road to connect to Stage One at the Rosa Brook intersection;
- 2.3km John Archibald Drive roundabout connection with the perimeter road;
- New roundabout north of Margaret River and associated road connections;
- New entrance road to the airport;
- 96m road bridge and a separate footbridge on the Darch Trail; and
- A 2.5m sealed shoulder on the perimeter road for cyclists.
During construction of the project, more than 20 local businesses were engaged, 120 local workers employed and 20 traineeships created.
Since its opening, road users have been getting used to the new configuration. Traffic data from January 2019 shows an average of 1,200 vehicles per day using the new perimeter road, with 22 per cent of those classed as heavy vehicles.
The intent of the Margaret River Perimeter Road is to provide an alternative, high-standard, free-flowing route for traffic without needing to travel through the Margaret River townsite.
As stated by Transport Minister Rita Saffioti:
“The completion of this project means Margaret River residents should now see a notable reduction in heavy vehicle movements along Bussell Highway through Margaret River.
“The new road will help the Shire of Augusta Margaret River continue to activate the town’s main street.
“I’m very pleased that we were able to open the road to motorists in time for the holiday season in December 2018. This meant reduced travel times and improved traffic flow for those travelling on Bussell Highway.
“It was also great to see the contractor employing local contractors and workers for this project, in addition to using local services such as accommodation, fuel and meals.”
