Infrastructure company Fulton Hogan has been awarded a contract to deliver early works including earthworks preparation, planting and fencing as part of the Bunbury Outer Ring Road project.
While the procurement process to secure alliance contractors to design and construct the South-West's biggest-ever transport infrastructure program is still ongoing, the early works contract was awarded to deliver important preparatory work.
During extensive engagement with the local community, rural landowners whose dwellings are located within 500m of the Bunbury Outer Ring Road main alignment were offered early screen planting.
While the final approvals process for the project is ongoing, these early native plantings are works that can be conducted now when jobs are needed and contribute positively to the local environment.
The plantings will provide a buffer, visually softening the construction works and the future road infrastructure for nearby landowners.
Up to 20,000 native seedlings destined for planting in these areas are already thriving at two local nurseries, Boyanup Botanical and Leschenault Community Nursery.
The $852 million Bunbury Outer Ring Road project includes the remaining stages of the four-lane, 27km link between Forrest and Bussell Highways.
It is the biggest infrastructure project ever undertaken in the South-West and is anticipated to create thousands of local jobs.
As stated by Transport Minister Rita Saffioti:
"The Outer Ring Road is the biggest transport infrastructure project ever planned for the South-West and will generate significant economic and employment opportunities.
"Maximising local business procurement is a key objective for the project so I'm pleased to see local contractors and local nurseries involved in these crucial early works.
"Up to 20,000 seedlings will be planted, providing privacy for landowners and a pleasant backdrop for drivers once the highway is complete."
As stated by Bunbury MLA Don Punch:
"I am so pleased Leschenault Community Nursery is one of the local businesses to benefit from this contract and that the outstanding service they provide our community through the provision of native plants specific to this area is being recognized.
"It is really important that at this difficult time we are able to continue with major projects and to continue to support local jobs for local people."
