CITY of Melville Mayor Russell Aubrey has welcomed the Federal Government’s $2.3 billion infrastructure funding package, which includes $100 million for an extension of Murdoch Drive to Kwinana Freeway and Roe Highway.
Mr Aubrey said the funding was a win for the Murdoch precinct, which the City hopes will one day become Perth’s second CBD.
“The release of the Murdoch University Master Plan indicated an increased priority to ease congestion around the Murdoch Health and Knowledge precinct and value capture the $3 billion growth in the area,” he said.
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READ NOW“The Federal budget announcement supports the Murdoch Activity Centre to reach its full potential with (a forecast) 12,500 residents, 35,000 jobs and 44,000 students.
“The funding of the off-ramp from Manning Road onto Kwinana Freeway is also a major congestion buster in freeing up traffic flows on Canning Highway, an added benefit for the community.”
Tangney MP Ben Morton said the extension would provide better and safer access to Fiona Stanley Hospital and the rest of the precinct.
“While it’s not the full Roe 8 project, this Roe Highway extension will mean fewer vehicles on local roads including Farrington Road, South Street, Murdoch Drive, Karel Avenue and others,” he said.
“Drivers will have no reason to rat-run past homes, local parks and schools.”
Mr Morton said he remained committed to lobbying for the construction of the Perth Freight Link, which has had its $1.2 billion in Federal money redirected as part of the new funding package.
Mr Aubrey said securing the construction of the Perth Freight Link also remained a major focus for the City of Melville.
“The Murdoch Drive-Roe Highway connection is a practical response to the immediate needs expressed by the City and we thank both the State and Federal Government for their efforts in this matter,” he said.
“However, removing 100,000 vehicles from our suburban roads will continue to be our focus.”
Jandakot MLA Yaz Mubarakai said the current infrastructure providing access to the Murdoch precinct was a hindrance to the future growth of the area.
“This announcement will be a huge relief for residents concerned by traffic on Farrington Road and Karel Avenue,” he said.
“The Murdoch Activity Centre is expected to be one of the biggest employers outside the CBD and this is a much-needed upgrade to provide more efficient access.”
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