PLANS for Roe Highway's stage eight will go before the Federal Government after the project was backed by the State Government today.
In a statement, acting Transport Minister Bill Marmion said conditional environmental approval for the 5.2km extension through Bibra Lake wetlands had been backed by Environment Minister Albert Jacob.
"The State Government recognises the environmental sensitivities associated with this location and will use innovative planning, design and construction measures when building this road," he said.
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READ NOWIn September 2013, the Environmental Protection Authority backed the extension linking the Kwinana Freeway and Stock Road in Coolbellup.
More than 165 appeals were lodged against it.
Rethink Perth Freight Link alliance co-convenor Kate Kelly said there would be a fierce response again.
"We've been expecting it but it's a sad day for the environment in WA," she said.
"If you're bulldozing 98 hectares of urban bushland the area, ecologically, will be severely compromised.
"We will explore every legal pathway in terms of contesting this poor decision.
"It would be funny if it wasn't so appalling."
If all approvals are granted, construction is expected to start in early 2016.