Walkerston traffic investigation moves to next stage

A major study into the future traffic needs of the Walkerston community has proposed four options for public comment.

Main Roads Minister Warren Pitt today outlined the options, and asked for community feedback for the next stage of the Walkerston traffic investigation.

"During the next two weeks, we are inviting people to provide feedback on which of the options they think is best for Walkerston," Mr Pitt said.

The options are:

• Option 1 - Stockroute Road – includes a large roundabout at the Bruce Highway, upgrading Stockroute Road and then deviating west of the Walkerston Homebush Road on a new alignment, before linking to the Peak Downs Highway.

• Option 2 - Alexandria Road – involves a large roundabout at a new intersection with Mackay-Eungella Road and the Peak Downs Highway, with a new alignment to Alexandria Road and continuing along south of Stockroute Road before rejoining with the Peak Downs Highway.

• Option 3 - Old Pleystowe Road – a large roundabout near the cemetery, with alignment north of Wests Leagues Club swings south to Old Pleystowe Road alignment and joins the Peak Downs Highway near Bergmans Road.

• Option 4 - Homebush Road – involves upgrading the length of Homebush Road, creating an alternative route to Dutton Street with internal road from roundabout at Anne Street and a new bridge crossing Bakers Creek, rejoining to the roundabout at Pugsley Street.

Mr Pitt said that with all of the options, there would also be a need to construct an alternative alignment to Dutton Street that recognised future growth in Walkerston and allowed the safe and efficient movement of local traffic.

"Feedback from stage one of consultation identified that heavy and dangerous goods vehicles and the increase in highway traffic through Walkerston were major concerns, along with the safety of pedestrians and cyclists and the location of shops and schools near the highway," Mr Pitt said.

"These options – which were all developed in line with Main Roads' best engineering and planning practice – aim to address these issues.

"Main Roads is now looking for further community feedback on each option in order to develop the most acceptable solution that also meets local safety needs."

The consultation period opens on 15 October and finishes on 9 November, with final submissions due by 16 November.

"We want to make sure everyone has the chance to have their say. This is a great opportunity to be involved in the decision-making process for the development of Mackay’s roads infrastructure," Mr Pitt said.

Displays with information brochures, feedback forms and prepaid reply envelopes will be located at Main Roads District Office, Mackay City Library and the Walkerston Shopping Centre for the next two weeks.

Feedback can also be given through the consultation hotline, 1300 736 754.

Media contact: Minister Pitt’s Office 3227 8819