Diamantina Developmental Road upgrade project to boost safety

Work has started on a $3 million project to upgrade a section of the Diamantina Developmental Road between Bedourie and Boulia.

Main Roads Minister Warren Pitt said the works involved widening and paving an 11.8km section of the Diamantina Developmental Road to provide a safer, smoother ride for motorists in the state's far central west.

"This project marks another important step towards providing sealed access to the remote communities of Bedourie and Birdsville," Mr Pitt said.

"Thousands of vehicles travel along Diamantina Developmental Road each year, of which 14 per cent are heavy vehicles.

"Sealing this section of road will improve the road surface and safety for all road users and improve freight efficiency for heavy vehicles."

Mr Pitt said the Diamantina Developmental Road would be widened to six metres and strengthened during the project.

The project is expected to be completed by December 2008, weather permitting.

"This is the first step of a $5.9 million project to pave and seal sections of the Diamantina Development Road, with a second phase to start later this year.

"I'd encourage all motorists to drive with caution through these works, and pay attention to speed and roadwork signage," Mr Pitt said.

RoadTek Asset Services North was awarded the contract for the project.