Green light for Leach Highway Improvement Plan

22/1/04
Planning and Infrastructure Minister Alannah MacTiernan today launched a comprehensive $1.65million works plan aimed at making Leach Highway safer for road users and local residents.
The Leach Highway Priority Improvement Plan - a series of innovative works, ranging from anti-skid road treatments to a 'noise wall' - will be undertaken in the first half of 2004.
"These improvements form a critical part of the Government's broader six-point freight management plan, and will significantly enhance safety by reducing known trouble spots on Leach Highway," Ms MacTiernan said.
"The program will maximise benefits to the community, while further consideration is given to longer-term solutions.
"It is an important stage in our plan to build better communities along the Leach Highway route."
Works will include:

• constructing bus embayments adjacent to Rossmoyne Senior High School;
• installing overhead mast arms at five signalised intersections on the highway (Centenary Avenue, Vahland Avenue, High Road, Karel Avenue and Webb Street);
• installing anti-skid intersection treatments at four locations (Abernethy Road, Welshpool Road, Manning Road and Karel Avenue);
• constructing a 200m trial section of noise wall on Kalagedy Drive in Riverton;
• installing window glazing at four locations to trial its effectiveness in reducing traffic noise (two between North Lake and Stock roads and two between Manning and Bungaree roads);
• lowering the speed limit from 80km/h to 70km/h on a trial basis between Shelley Bridge and Bullcreek Drive;
• undertaking a full sign review along the highway with a focus on developing new and innovative signs; and
• installing street lighting on the highway from Tonkin Highway to Abernethy Road and Orrong Road to Welshpool Road.

Riverton MLA Tony McRae welcomed the package.
Mr McRae said the trial of a demonstration noise wall and thicker window glazing was a positive step in managing the socio-environmental aspects of having a highway in close proximity to residences.
"Valuable data collected during the noise trials will assist in developing effective management plans on roads similar to Leach Highway," he said.
The improvements were developed in consultation with Main Roads, relevant local governments, the transport industry and the Department for Planning and Infrastructure.
"Main Roads will continue to work with local government and the broader community on this dynamic proposal, which will evolve based on feedback and trial results,"
Ms MacTiernan said.
Minister's office: 9213 6400