Gold Coast residents are a step closer to driving on the ‘Second M1’ as the first contract is awarded.
Acciona Construction Australia Pty Ltd and Georgiou Group Pty Ltd Joint Venture, with WSP and BG&E as the designers, will undertake enabling works and finalise the design for Coomera Connector Stage 1 North, between Coomera and Helensvale, the Premier confirmed today.
Premier Annastacia Palaszczuk said delivering the second M1 was a priority for the Queensland Government.
“Thousands of Gold Coasters use the M1 each and every day,” she said.
“Building the second M1 is incredibly important when it comes to easing congestion and getting people home sooner.
Federal Minister for Communications, Urban Infrastructure, Cities and the Arts, Paul Fletcher said the contract award was a milestone in the delivery of this significant project.
“The Coomera Connector is a significant project that will provide long-term benefits to commuters across South East Queensland by providing an alternative north-south route that will help ease congestion on the M1,” Minister Fletcher said.
“The Morrison Government is providing funding for Stage 1 of this project as part of our record $110 billion, 10-year infrastructure investment pipeline, which is helping to drive Australia’s economic recovery.
“By alleviating congestion along critical transport corridors, we’re helping people to get home to their families sooner and safer, we’re helping freight move more quickly between our cities, and we’re generating jobs across the country.”
Queensland Transport and Main Roads Minister, Mark Bailey said the early works agreement for Stage 1 North means site compounds can be established and sub-contractors secured in readiness for major construction to start in mid-2022.
“This ensures the project will be shovel ready as soon as all environmental approvals are in place,” he said.
“Safety will be at the forefront of the project through construction and operation.
“The Palaszczuk Government’s procurement rules on major projects like the Coomera Connector ensure contractors adhere to the highest possible safety standards and emphasise training opportunities to grow our skilled workforce.
“Our Better Practice Industry Conditions are also designed to create local jobs and encourage use of local suppliers, because we want as much of our investment as possible to benefit Queensland workers and Queensland businesses.”
To stay up-to-date on the Coomera Connector, visit www.tmr.qld.gov.au/projects/programs/coomera-connector
