PINJARRA SOUTH EASTERN BYPASS STILL ALIVE

Main Roads WA has advised the Shire that it is currently undertaking planning for the Pinjarra Eastern Bypass utilising funds allocated by the State Government as part of the Boddington Social Infrastructure Funding Package. 

Under the current proposal, Stage 1 will run from South West Highway (south of Pinjarra) to the Pinjarra Williams Road, connecting as a T-Junction). 

To date, ground survey, environmental assessment and Aboriginal Heritage assessments have been completed.  The Aboriginal Heritage assessment has identified that the proposed alignment currently in the Peel Regional Scheme conflicts with the Battle of Pinjarra Site.  The South West Land and Sea Council has advised that it is not supportive of this site being disturbed.  Therefore, Main Roads are currently reviewing the alignment of the road to move slightly east to avoid impacting on this site.

Preliminary alternative routes are being investigated.  It is believed that an acceptable and effective alternative route can be developed.  Additional surveys will be arranged to enable alternatives to be properly assessed following which affected landowners and the Land and Sea Council will be consulted. 

Once an alternative alignment is agreed, further surveys will be required before the bridge analysis and road design can be completed and a more accurate cost estimate undertaken.  This is likely to be as late as mid 2009 depending on any issues raised by affected parties.

When the alignment of the ByPass has been agreed Main Roads will pursue an amendment to the Peel Regional Scheme.

The Shire of Murray will continue to pursue this project as a major priority.  Currently, an average of 410 large trucks travel through the Pinjarra town-site every day.