The long-planned Pinjarra Heavy Haulage Deviation will go ahead despite the Federal Government pulling $200 million from the project.
With $50 million already allocated to the project, the Western Australian Government has confirmed it will proceed with delivery following the Federal Government’s decision to withdraw.
The project was part of a recent Federal Government review of Australia’s infrastructure pipeline.
Initially conceived as a project to improve the efficiency of truck movements on the South Western Highway and improve safety in Pinjarra, by diverting trucks around the township, the Pinjarra Heavy Haulage Deviation has been planned for 20 years.
Last year, ahead of the Australian Government’s Federal Budget, Stages 1 and 2 were pushed back, delaying a start date a further 18 months.
The project is currently going through environmental and heritage approvals.
Once these processes are completed, the State Government will assess funding and delivery options.
A disappointed WA Transport Minister Rita Saffioti said the project was considered very important for the efficacy of supply chains.
“We see the Pinjarra Heavy Haulage Deviation as a very important project both for the efficiency of our supply chains and for the safety of people living in Pinjarra.
“This decision by the Federal Government to remove $200 million from this project is disappointing but we remain committed to seeing it delivered, with $50 million already allocated by the State,” she said.
“The project is currently going through environmental and heritage approvals, and once that process has concluded, we will assess funding and delivery options as part of regular budget processes.”
