Federal major project minister’s response backs previous negotiations
The federal government expects Perth Freight Link (PFL) to go ahead as planned, despite a range of messages, issues and scenarios emanating from Western Australia.
Following premier Colin Barnett’s comments that the PFL would be revisited in 12 months’ time noting the project will run into complications surrounding the 2017 election, state treasurer Mike Nahan has told local media the project is still on track and that he does not expect the issue to affect the proposed sale of the Port of Fremantle lease.
While doubt arising from the timing issue has drawn industry flack, notably from the WA Road Transport Association, the message from Canberra is consistent.
“The Australian Government has committed $925 million under its Infrastructure Investment Program to construct the Perth Freight Link project,” federal major projects minister Paul Fletcher tells ATN in a written response that echoes comments in Canberra from finance minister Matthias Cormann and cities minister Jamie Briggs.
“The project comprises both the Roe 8 component (Stage 1) and the further stage to Fremantle Port.
“The project will provide a direct high quality connection between the Roe Highway and the Port of Fremantle, providing improved capacity for heavy vehicle freight movements to and from the Fremantle Port in Western Australia.
“The Perth Freight Link project, together with the Gateway WA and NorthLink WA projects, will also provide an efficient and dedicated 85km freight route from Muchea to Fremantle.
“The Western Australian Government’s announcement that the Roe 8 section will commence in the near future is consistent with the construction timetable set out for the Perth Freight Link as previously agreed with the Western Australian Government.
“The Australian Government is confident that the Perth Freight Link project will be delivered in the terms agreed last year between the Commonwealth and the Western Australian Government.”