Inspection today of the $30.3 million Kenwick Joint Project construction site

13/9/99
Premier Richard Court and Transport Minister Murray Criddle today inspected the $30.3 million Kenwick Joint Project construction site which incorporates a special tunnel for the planned South-West Metropolitan railway.
Today's inspection was part of the South-East Metropolitan Region Cabinet meeting at Gosnells.
Mr Court said the Kenwick project was a key component in the ongoing development and upgrade of the Roe Highway which was one of the region's key transport and commuter routes.
The special tunnel at the Kenwick project allows for the planned South-West Metropolitan urban railway to connect to the Perth-Armadale line.
As part of today's inspection the Premier and Mr Criddle also inspected a special public viewing platform which will allow people to watch safely construction activities first-hand.
"This project is one of many major developments under way throughout Western Australia which underpin the Government's commitment to providing a safe and reliable transport network," Mr Court said.
"Roe Highway plays a critical role in the public transport and general transport network because it provides a loop around the metropolitan area connecting the northern, eastern and southern suburbs.
"The Kenwick project enhances public safety by streamlining the convergence of road and rail activities," he said.
Transport Minister Murray Criddle said the project required the construction of seven bridges, the realignment of Albany Highway between Harris and Royal streets closer to the railway line and raising the existing Kenwick flyover to accommodate the future extension of Roe Highway.
"These works are integral to Roe Highway's future development, which will see it extended in 2002 from Welshpool Road, under Albany Highway, through to Kenwick Link," Mr Criddle said.
"Pedestrian and cyclist facilities will also be upgraded with a shared path on the north side of the Perth-Armadale rail line enhancing access between Beckenham, Kenwick and Maddington stations.
"The existing Albany Highway will become a cul-de-sac and a service road constructed to connect residents with the new Albany Highway. This area will be landscaped enhancing the existing vegetation," he said.
Mr Criddle said the Kenwick Joint Project would be completed in mid-2001, complementing the expected start of Roe Highways extension from Welshpool Road to Kenwick Link in 2002.
"We have carried out extensive community consultation with residents and businesses with an interest in the project," Mr Criddle said.
"This has included community liaison groups, public displays and newsletters during the preliminary and detailed design phases and before and during construction," he said.
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