Leighton selected as preferred proponent for rail contract

10/10/03
Leighton Contractors has been selected as the preferred proponent to undertake multi-million dollar works to alter the Kwinana Freeway as part of Perth's New MetroRail project.
Planning and Infrastructure Minister Alannah MacTiernan said the works, known as 'Package E', comprised the design and construction of the civil, structural and drainage works required to accommodate the railway from the Narrows Bridge to Glen Iris.
"The preferred proponent was selected from two consortia that submitted detailed project proposals for consideration in August this year," Ms MacTiernan said.
"Leighton Contractors was selected for its competitive proposal and its ability to deliver a quality product through a highly skilled and motivated project team.
"Leighton Contractors also demonstrated its awareness of the key project issues and the need to minimise impacts on the community, environment and traffic during the project."
The Perth-to-Mandurah railway is part of the State Government's $1.4billion New MetroRail project, which also includes extensions to the Northern Suburbs Railway, a spur line from Armadale to Thornlie and upgrades through Victoria Park.
"In the coming weeks, Main Roads will negotiate project details with Leighton Contractors, with a contract on schedule to be awarded in December this year," the Minister said.
In general, Package E includes work to alter and strengthen the Narrows and Mount Henry bridges, realign the freeway carriageways, construct railway formation and replace the on-ramp bus bridge at Canning Highway.
Other works include undertaking the railway station earthworks and realigning on and off-ramps at Leach Highway and South Street.
"The contract price will depend on finalising design concepts and the outcome of negotiations with Leighton Contractors," Ms MacTiernan said.
"However, there is every indication that the contract price will meet budget targets."
On site construction work is anticipated to start in early 2004, with project completion scheduled for December, 2005.
Main Roads will manage Package E and the works it contains on behalf of the New MetroRail project team.
For further information about the New MetroRail project please call 1800 110 075 or access the project's web: http://www.newmetrorail.wa.gov.au
Minister's office: 9213 6400