Overwhelming response to plans for by-pass road

3/10/93

There has been an overwhelming public response to plans for a new by-pass road and third river crossing north of Perth.

Planning Minister Richard Lewis said today that on average about 400 people a day had been visiting the GPO in Perth, where a model and plans of the bridge and road proposal are on display.

Mr Lewis last week released for public comment findings of the Burswood bridge and road study, which recommends that the State Government consider building a city by-pass to prevent both Northbridge and the central city area becoming choked by future traffic increases.

The report's two by-pass options include a $235 million tunnel under Northbridge and a $155 million above-ground road - with both connecting Great Eastern Highway and Orrong Road in Rivervale to the Mitchell Freeway in Leederville.

Mr Lewis said he was pleased at the public's response so far and urged more people to view the display and submit comments on the proposal.

"While the Government recognises the need for a third river crossing and by-pass north of the city, public input is vital in determining which is the best option," he said.

Mr Lewis said that copies of a summary brochure outlining the proposals had been sent to all residents and businesses in Northbridge, Highgate and parts of East Perth that would be affected by the plans.

He said invitations to attend briefings on the proposals were also being sent to all business, professional, community and industry groups, including members of the Opposition, interested in the plans.

"As I have said before, the Government is committed to canvassing as many views as possible on these proposals before making a final decision," he said.

The model and plans of the by-pass options will be on display at the Perth GPO until the end of the year.

Media contact: Paul Plowman 222 9595/221 1377