Approval for James St to become Northbridge Tunnel off-ramp

16/12/95

Transport Minister Eric Charlton has approved a Main Roads recommendation for James Street to become an off-ramp from the Northbridge Tunnel for westbound traffic using the City Northern Bypass.

The original proposal was for a connection to John Street.

Mr Charlton said the change followed a major traffic study of the West Perth, Leederville and Northbridge area.

"It will also accommodate one of the concept proposals of the Northbridge Urban Renewal Study, which suggests development of the land between John Street and the tunnel portal west of Fitzgerald Street as a heritage precinct focussed on St Brigid's Church and former convent," he said.

There were also concerns from members of St Brigid's Parish about traffic noise levels that might be experienced on the John Street off-ramp.

Traffic modelling had indicated that about 2,500 vehicles per day would leave the tunnel at the western end to access the city and Northbridge, rising to about 5,000 vehicles a day in 2021.

"The option of using James Street as an alternative makes sense, because it is already the Mitchell Freeway exit for motorists heading into the northern part of the city," Mr Charlton said.

He said awarding the first design and construction contract would be announced in April.  The first contract would involve works between Mitchell Freeway and East Parade and include the Northbridge tunnel.  Construction work was expected to start towards the end of 1996 with the completion of the bypass scheduled for the year 2000.

The bypass would provide a major east-west link between Great Eastern Highway in Rivervale and the Mitchell Freeway in West Perth and would be part of the State Government's plan to reduce traffic congestion in the centre of the city to encourage a more 'people friendly' environment.

Media contact:  Will Henwood 481 2044