News
4 July, 2024
New routes considered for Bruce Highway Alternative stage
Transport Minister Bart Mellish has announced that Transport and Main Roads (TMR) will investigate an alternative proposed route for Stage 4 of the Bruce Highway Western Alternative, following community feedback.
Transport Minister Bart Mellish has announced that Transport and Main Roads (TMR) will investigate an alternative proposed route for Stage 4 of the Bruce Highway Western Alternative, following community feedback.
Stage 4 is set to connect Beerburrum and Moodlu, with two routes proposed for public consultation in late 2023.
Over 500 community members attended information sessions, and more than 850 submissions were received between November 2023 and February 2024. Many of the submissions expressed a preference for a route further west, which would reduce impacts on the urban footprint and community severance. As a result, TMR will now assess options for this alternative route, with investigations expected to be completed by early 2025. Local residents will be re-engaged during this period for further consultation.
The planning process for the Bruce Highway Western Alternative is expected to take more than a decade, with social, environmental, and amenity impacts remaining key considerations. TMR is also working with other government agencies, including local councils, to plan and design future developments in the Elimbah area following the Shaping SEQ plan released last year.
Minister Mellish assured the community that TMR is carefully considering all feedback to ensure that the route balances the need for improved transport networks with minimal impact on residents. Member for Pumicestone, Ali King, praised the decision to pause consideration of the original route and highlighted the importance of continuing community consultation. The timeline for reporting back to the community on the proposed western route is expected in early 2025.
