Toowoomba Bypass pilot tunnel makes good progress

The Toowoomba Bypass pilot tunnel project is making strong progress, with a work crew now drilling 330m into the escarpment.

Minster for Main Roads Warren Pitt today said the $4.5 million pilot tunnel should be completed by December this year.

"AVKO Mining started work on the pilot tunnel at Old Goombungee Road in May this year, following the line of the proposed westbound bypass tunnel," Mr Pitt said.

"When finished, the tunnel will provide vital geotechnical information and help with cost estimates for a faster, safer 42 km bypass route.

"The route will run to the north and west of Toowoomba from Helidon in the east to Charlton in the west and then south to the Gore Highway near Westbrook Creek."

Mr Pitt said the knowledge gained from the pilot tunnel would help inform a business case for the overall bypass project.

"This business case will include detailed costings and indicative construction timeframes for the project.

“The Federal Government this week announced $700 million in funding for the project. However, with the estimated total cost is in the vicinity of $2 billion or more, we are awaiting further information from the Federal Government about how it intends to fund this national road project.

The proposed bypass project includes twin, three-lane 735 metre-long tunnels through the range escarpment, and would be located about 90 metres below the New England Highway between Harlaxton and Mount Kynoch.

Mr Pitt said the majority of the pilot tunnel was being excavated by methods involving drilling and blasting.

"Residents in the area have experienced some noise and air blast concussion, which is comparable to fireworks or nearby thunder.

"These effects are diminishing as the length of the tunnel increases and AVKO and Main Roads have worked closely with the community to work through any of their concerns,” he said.

Signs indicating the location of the pilot tunnel have been erected on the New England Highway north of Harlaxton.

Media contact: Minister Pitt’s Office 3227 8819