Plans to upgrade Brookton Highway being brought forward

11/3/93

Main Roads is bringing forward plans to upgrade Brookton Highway.

Transport Minister Eric Charlton said the revised strategy meant the highway would be widened to seven metres of sealed surface within the next five years.

The work will be undertaken on a 100 kilometres section of the highway between Roleystone and Brookton, including 43 kilometres of road through State forest, at a cost of $20 million.

"The work and the cost has already been budgeted for," Mr Charlton said.

"It does not mean the Government will need to find extra funds.

"In view of local government and community concerns over the condition of the Brookton Highway, it was prudent in my opinion to speed up the work schedule to bring it up to standard as quickly as possible."

Passing lanes would be installed at appropriate sections of the highway to reduce driver frustration and improve safety.

Where the road pavement was in a sound condition, work would focus on widening the seal, correcting surface irregularities and resealing.

Mr Charlton said sections where it was impractical to extend the pavement life would be realigned and reconstructed.

Media contact: Dean Roberts 222 9595