Construction on the new Mandurah Entrance Road will start mid 2009 – a year sooner than originally planned – following the selection of preferred builders.

Federal Infrastructure and Transport Minister, Anthony Albanese, and WA Transport Minister, Simon O’Brien said Main Roads WA is working with the preferred consortia – the Southern Gateway Alliance comprising Leighton Contractors, WA Limestone and GHD – to finalise a funding agreement.

“We are determined to deliver this vital road as quickly as possible. That’s why the Federal Government brought forward funding for this project as part of our response to the global economic recession,” said Mr Albanese.

“This project will not only create up to 80 jobs on-site, but also put in place the road infrastructure vital to the region’s longer term economic development.

“By providing a direct link between the soon-to-be-completed Kwinana Freeway extension and Mandurah, one of the country’s fastest growing regional centres, it will alleviate congestion on local roads, reduce travel times and improve road safety.

“I appreciate all that the WA Government has done to accelerate work on this vital project.”

The Mandurah Entrance Road is being jointly funded by the Australian and Western Australian governments, with each contributing $65 million.

Western Australian Transport Minister, Simon O’Brien, said the Southern Gateway Alliance has a strong record when it comes to delivering major infrastructure projects, with their work on the new Kwinana Freeway extension-Forrest Highway project due to finish within budget and ahead of schedule.

“The new seven kilometre Mandurah Entrance Road will be a key piece of infrastructure, linking the State’s largest ever road project – Kwinana Freeway extension-Forrest Highway – to this major regional centre.

“We expect the new Entrance Road to open to traffic by mid 2010.”