News
7 January, 2025
'Routes off the table'
Residents impacted by the Bruce Highway Western Alternative (BHWA) were able to breathe a sigh of relief just before Christmas, as the Queensland Government announced the scrapping of the original Stage 4 corridor options for the project.
The BHWA plan had been fought by Elimbah, Moodlu, and Caboolture residents since December 2023, as it would have seen the resumption of over 120 residential homes and farms to make room for the new highway.
Transport and Main Roads Minister, Brent Mickelberg, confirmed on December 20, 2024, that investigations into new alignments between Beerburrum and Moodlu will continue into early 2025.
“We’ve listened to the community’s concerns,” Mr. Mickelberg said.
“The original routes shared in late 2023 are off the table. Our focus is to deliver a sustainable and integrated transport solution that supports the region’s rapid growth while addressing the needs of all communities.
“New investigations into an alternative route are nearing completion and are expected to be complete in early 2025, when a more detailed project update can be provided.”
A range of alternative alignments for the future motorway were put forward by the community, ranging from modifications to the original corridor options to entirely new routes.
Moodlu resident Katrina Smith, from the community opposition group (Objection to Current Bruce Highway Western Alternative), described the process as “385 days of hell” and thanked key figures for their support.
“Thank you Andrew Powell MP, Ariana Doolan MP, David Crisafulli MP, and Brent Mickelberg MP for allowing logic and intelligence to guide the fate of Stage 4,” Ms. Smith said.
“Thank you for hearing our community and delivering us from this nightmare.”
The decision by TMR and the State Government comes after over 850 feedback submissions were received over a 10-week period, between late 2023 and early 2024.
While feedback covered several themes, the majority of submissions received (70 per cent) included comments on the project design and corridor location, ideas for alternative routes, and suggestions to utilise existing roads.
Key concerns brought to light by the feedback included potential property impacts, preservation of the natural environment, lifestyle changes, cultural heritage considerations, and public and active transport improvements.
The community backlash after the original proposal was announced in December 2023 also included a parliamentary petition signed by over 10,800 residents demanding alternative solutions.
Ongoing investigations for the future Moreton Motorway focus on supporting long-term growth across the region, improving connections between established and emerging communities, and easing congestion on road networks.
Corridor planning must balance the needs of both established communities and Elimbah’s expanded urban footprint, which is expected to accommodate significant future residential and employment growth outlined in the 25-year South East Queensland Regional Plan.
Residents are encouraged to stay informed by subscribing to project updates or contacting the project team directly at 1800 955 799.
