Work begins on Charles St as it undergoes major traffic changes

CHARLES Street will undergo dramatic changes during several months of work that have just begun.

The works, due to end in March next year, are a major component of the Charles Street Bus Bridge and Busway Project.

Main Roads WA reported the project provides “a long term solution to improve bus transport into the city and ease congestion”.

More significant work will soon start on Charles Street causing temporary and permanent changes to traffic flows.

The work will start near the Newcastle Street intersection and move north widening the western side of Charles Street and removing the median strip to accommodate new bus lanes.

Workers will install a new surface and verge on the west side of Charles Street, new lane configurations at the Newcastle Street intersection and new lighting on both sides of the street.

From October 16, it will no longer be possible to turn right into Carr Street from Charles Street from either direction.

Vehicles heading south on Charles will be able to turn right at Vincent Street, before entering Freeway South or turn left into Newcastle Street.

Another permanent change will be the relocation of Ivy Street bus stop next to Janet Street.

City of Vincent Mayor John Carey anticipated a major impact on the area.

“The critical issue is keeping residents clearly informed about the impacts on traffic flow; and always being upfront about potential delays,” he said.

Perth MLA Eleni Evangel said the project would “see over a thousand buses removed from James Street, Fitzgerald Street and Carr Street”.

“Bus passengers can expect a reduction in their travel times of up to six minutes per journey once the inclusion of bus-only lanes on Charles Street is completed,” she said.

Prospect Place at the Charles Street end will be closed throughout October because of the works, and the west-side footpath of Carr Street and Newcastle Street will be closed until March.