Tender Release for Weddell Freeway Planning Study

NT Government

The Territory Labor Government knows how important it is to plan for the future development of the Territory.

A planning study tender has been released for the potential development of the Weddell Freeway.

Recently, the Northern Territory Planning Commission released the first draft of the Holtze to Elizabeth River Subregional Land Use Plan (HESLUP) for public comment, which highlights the potential of the Weddell Freeway.

The preliminary alignment of the Freeway is already defined and zoned under the Northern Territory Planning Scheme as a Proposed Main Road, which reserves land for future development as a significant road transport infrastructure corridor. The planning study and eventual concept design for a Weddell Freeway is underpinned by over 30 years of planning, and was recently included in public consultations for the Darwin Regional Land Use Plan 2015.

Commencing from Tiger Brennan Drive, the proposed corridor will run adjacent to the railway line west of the Palmerston Town Centre, travel through to the area of Weddell before connecting to the Stuart Highway near Cox Peninsula Road.

The freeway will improve access from the Darwin CBD to Noonamah, Berry Springs and Weddell, and connect to future strategic commercial and industrial developments in Winnellie, Berrimah North, Darwin East Arm Port, Channel Island, Wishart and the developing industrial estate at Middle Arm.

The project will deliver improved road safety outcomes through reduced congestion on existing freight and commuter routes serve as an alternative route in emergencies and reduce traffic on the Stuart Highway.

The planning study tender closes in February 2022 with a draft concept design expected to be completed throughout the year. To view the tender visit here

Quotes attributed to the Minister for Infrastructure, Planning and Logistics, Eva Lawler:

“The Territory Labor Government is planning for the future of the Northern Territory.

“The planning study for the Weddell Freeway will help to develop a concept design, cost estimates and identify potential construction stages to support funding options for the project.

“The process which is currently underway is part of good planning that will make sure the future development complements our existing community and aligns with our Territory way of life.

“We will continue to plan for and invest in sustainable precincts across the Territory that will enable existing and new industries to grow, providing long-term job opportunities that support our aim to create a $40 billion economy by 2030.”

Northern Territory Government

/Public Release. View in full here.