A preferred route has been identified for the future freight corridor between Dongara, Geraldton and Northampton.
The proposed corridor follows an inland route to the south of Geraldton up towards Northampton following close to North West Coastal Highway.
From Dongara to Geraldton, a new inland corridor is proposed to start near the Brand Highway and Midlands Road intersection to link up with the current Arthur Road alignment to the south of Geraldton.
The northern link and southern options would be linked by proposed new road infrastructure within the already planned Oakajee Narngulu Infrastructure Corridor.
From Geraldton to Northampton, a new road is proposed within a wider corridor near the existing North West Coastal Highway.
The preferred route was defined by a Main Roads alignment selection study which was undertaken to identify a road corridor that could provide a long-term solution for freight, safely accommodate heavy vehicle combinations and remove heavy vehicles from town sites throughout the Mid-West.
This study originally identified three possible routes between Dongara and Geraldton, and a further three between Geraldton and Northampton.
Following extensive community feedback and investigations the preferred single corridor between Dongara, Geraldton and Northampton has been proposed.
Main Roads will now continue discussions with landowners and other key stakeholders, including local governments and the Mid West Development Commission, before seeking endorsement from the Western Australian Planning Commission.
To find out more about the planning study, and provide feedback, visit: https://www.mysaytransport.wa.gov.au/dongara-geraldton-northampton-planning-study
As stated by Transport Minister Rita Saffioti:
"This is a project that has been talked about in the Mid-West region for many years.
"Main Roads has now completed an alignment study following years of investigation and consultation that has identified a preferred route for this project.
"Now the preferred route has been identified, Main Roads will continue to seek the community's input into the proposed alignment, including landowners, local government and community members.
"I want to stress this is only the start of the process for this project and there is currently no funding allocated towards construction.
"There is plenty of time for everyone to have their say and I would encourage all interested community members to provide their feedback."
As stated by Agricultural Region MLC Darren West:
"I thank Minister Saffioti for moving this important project closer to a reality.
"This proposed new highway will provide a major upgrade to our road network, improve road safety and road transport links.
"It will also provide hundreds of local jobs and increased economic growth for the Midwest."
As stated by Agricultural Region MLC Laurie Graham:
"Progressing this key highway upgrade has been a passion of mine since coming to Government in 2017.
"I congratulate Minister Saffioti on putting this plan out for comment and ensuring locals can have their say.
"This is an important local project and vital upgrade. I urge everyone in the area to view the full details and get involved to ensure we have the highway we deserve, for decades to come."
