Moves to secure land for future northern bypass

24/10/94

Plans for the Burswood Bridge and a full tunnel under Northbridge took a step closer to reality today.

Planning Minister Richard Lewis announced moves to secure land for the future northern bypass to reduce traffic congestion in the city.

The proposal to reserve a section of the bypass in the Metropolitan Region Scheme from Orrong Road, Rivervale to Lord Street, East Perth, was released to the public in September last year.

The new alignment for the Burswood Bridge and bypass will free land in East Perth for redevelopment that had previously been affected.  It will also connect with land already reserved for the Northbridge tunnel to link up with the Mitchell Freeway.

Mr Lewis said the scheme amendment attracted nearly 270 public submissions and resulted in modifications to a section of route in East Perth.

"The road will now be lowered in East Perth and moved closer to the railway line to provide better access to Northbridge and the city, thereby reducing the impact on private property," he said.

"Widespread debate was also generated about whether the Northbridge section of bypass should be constructed as a surface road or tunnel.

"Following this extensive public consultation, the Metropolitan Planning Council recommended a full tunnel as the preferred option for the bypass, estimated to cost about $300 million."

Mr Lewis stressed the amendment related only to land requirements for the road and Cabinet would have to consider funding questions before making a decision when to proceed with the full tunnel option.

A report on the submissions confirmed neither of the original proposals for a partially covered tunnel or surface road had community support mainly due to their adverse effect on Northbridge.

"The options were dismissed because of their perceived divisive nature, concerns about noise levels and air pollution," Mr Lewis said.

"The report indicated the sensitivity of Northbridge justified a full tunnel, despite its additional construction cost.

"It stated the aesthetic, environmental and social benefits were likely to far outweigh the extra expenditure."

Mr Lewis said the northern bypass was needed to reduce traffic pressure on Perth, particularly given the rapid population growth in the metropolitan area.

"This proposal is not just about a new east-west link for the transport of important goods and services," he said.

"It is about guaranteeing the accessibility and long-term future of Perth so that it continues to grow as the financial, entertainment and cultural centre of the State."

Mr Lewis said the bypass would help breathe life back into the city and was consistent with the recently released plans for a new vision for the city centre.

"The plan as proposed will also allow Northbridge to develop its full potential," Mr Lewis said.

"The other options would have inhibited this important area of the city."

The amendment will be tabled in both Houses of Parliament for 12 sitting days.

Media contact:  Tony Robertson  222 9595 / 221 1377