Three projects on the Peninsula Developmental Road (PDR) will be complete prior to the 2015 Christmas break, with another to be completed early next year.
Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Infrastructure and Regional Development Warren Truss said the PDR projects are part of the $260.5 million Cape York Region Package, which will improve access for Cape York communities and support regional economic growth.
“Three projects are set to be completed by Christmas, weather permitting, including sealing works four kilometres south of Morehead River and seven kilometres south of Hann River, and four and a half kilometres of seal at Sourayas Hill,” Mr Truss said.
“Upon completion of the Mein Deviation project early next year, approximately 44.5 kilometres of road will be upgraded, helping to strengthen local and Indigenous communities through increased economic activity in the region.
Federal Member for Leichhardt Warren Entsch said 78 kilometres of the Peninsula Developmental Road will be sealed once the four projects are completed.
“Further sealing works under the Cape York Region Package will start after the wet season. The upgrades are progressing well, and we’re looking forward to delivering a stronger and improved PDR that will help establish better connections and economic development for local Cape York communities,” Mr Entsch said.
Queensland Minister for Main Roads, Road Safety and Ports Mark Bailey said as of December, 12 kilometres of the Mein Deviation project was sealed, with another 17 kilometres of road due to be sealed by late January.
“Seven Indigenous trainees have also worked on the Mein Deviation project, working to obtain qualifications in Civil Construction and Traffic Control,” Mr Bailey said.
“Trainees have been working across several areas including environmental management, cultural heritage monitoring and machine operation. Applications for tenders and sub-contracts will be announced early next year for the delivery of the 2016-17 projects on the PDR, and industry briefings will be held at key locations and in Cairns.”
For further information on upcoming works in the Cape York Region Package visit www.tmr.qld.gov.au/Projects/Name/C/Cape-York-Region-Package-Peninsula-Developmental-Road.aspx
The Cape York Region Package is a jointly funded project with the Australian Government contributing $208.4 million and the Queensland Government $52.1 million.
