$30 million Government initiative to develop regional road networks

Gary Higgins, Member for Daly
 
Peter Styles
Minister for Transport

A new program of works announced in this year’s Budget will see a $30 million dollar investment in roads that have strategic economic importance for the development of the North.

“The Territory Government is delivering projects that will contribute to building a strong economy and allow the Territory to take the lead in the development of Northern Australia,” Minister for Transport Peter Styles said.

“The Strategic Economic Roads Package initiative will be used to develop the road network at key locations to promote economic growth in the regions.

“The Initiative is fully funded by the Northern Territory Government and will include projects on Port Keats Road, Tanami Road and the Arnhem Highway, as well as three main roads on Melville Island.”

Member for Daly Gary Higgins is looking forward to the commencement of construction of the Port Keats Road project.

“Constructing a new crossing at Saddle Rail Creek and designing a new crossing at Yellow Creek will certainly improve access during the wet season,” said Mr Higgins.

“This major road services the Western Daly River region, including the remote centre of Wadeye, I am really excited about the news that work will be undertaken this financial year.”

Minister Styles said the continued sealing of the Tanami Road will support local industry and economic development in Central Australia. 

“This funding will provide three times the regular annual seal of the Tanami Road and will be a welcome enhancement for the cattle and mining industries,” Minister Styles said

“Several resource based businesses operate in the region and the Tanami Road also supports the Yuendumu community.”

For many years there have been significant issues on the Arnhem Highway across the Adelaide River Floodplain, with wet season delays and closures and load restrictions to Mt Bundy impacting on locals, mining, extractive industries, tourism and defence. 

“Providing all weather access on this major economic road will be a much welcomed addition to improving productivity, along with the strengthening and widening works being undertaken as part of the annual program.

“I’ve been advised some hydrology work has already commenced, and tenders for survey and geotechnical work are expected to be released this financial year.”

“By providing necessary funding in the regions for improved infrastructure and access, we are supporting local business and promoting economic growth.”

This package also supports design for upgrades to three main roads – the Pirlangimpi Access Road, Paru Access Road and Pickertaramoor Access Road and will significantly enhance economic development and opportunities.

Source: ProjectLink.com.au

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