Federal and Territory governments appoint engineering consultancy to suggest ways of further diverting trucks away from the town
The Australian Government is funding a planning study that will look at alternative freight routes that bypass the Northern Territory town of Katherine.
Infrastructure minister Warren Truss says consultancy Aurecon Australasia will undertake the research, aimed at improving the overall road network in the territory.
“In years to come, the Northern Territory expects to experience strong growth in mining, agriculture and live cattle exports, with the Stuart Highway forming a key link between these industries and the global market,” he says.
“This growth will see an increased number of heavy vehicles travelling through the centre of Katherine, affecting local traffic and pedestrians.”
Truss says the study will also look at ways of improving the territory’s key freight route outside of the Katherine area.
“This study will ensure both freight operators and regional centres are well-serviced by the Stuart Highway, while also reducing the impact of freight traffic on local residents.”
Northern Territory deputy chief minister Willem Westra van Holthe says the planning study will bring long-term benefits to Katherine and the Territory.
“With the increased use by heavy vehicles, there will be growing concerns for road safety, in particular the safety of the children, other pedestrians and local traffic,” he says.
The study, which is in addition to the freight bypass currently in the first stage of construction, is expected to be completed by the end of this year, when results will also be announced.