Ertech wins contract to build Stage 3 of WA South Coast Hwy Upgrade

Local Western Australia-based contractor Ertech Pty Ltd has been awarded the contract to deliver the third and final stage of the $30 million South Coast Highway Upgrade. 

Scope of works for Stage 3 will include road reconstruction as well as building two new passing lanes and road widening works along the section of South Coast Highway between Bluff Creek and Kojaneerup. 

Construction on Stage 3 of the South Coast Highway Upgrade will commence next month and is due to be completed by May 2021. 

“The construction of the passing lanes will benefit many commuters, given the area experiences a mix of tourist traffic and heavy vehicles. 

“Completion of the third stage – and the overall program – will provide safer travelling opportunities, and improved transport efficiencies for everyone in our Great Southern Region,” Albany MLA Peter Watson said. 

The South Coast Highway Upgrade is being delivered through a staged approach, with the first and second stage already completed. 

Past works include: 

• Stage 1 (completed in June 2019): Mead Road section – widening the pavement from 7 to 11 metres between Kilarney Road and Monty’s Leap Winery, and construction of a westbound passing lane approximately 2.5 kilometres west of Kalgan River Bridge 
• Stage 2 (completed in April 2020): Kalgan section – widening the pavement from 7 to 11 metres between Monty’s Leap Winery and the Kalgan River Bridge 

The entire South Coast Highway Upgrade is estimated to support up to 150 direct and indirect jobs during its construction phase. 

“Improvements along the South Coast Highway are taking shape, creating local jobs and opportunities for local businesses. 

“This is just part of a job-creating, road upgrades package worth $220 million we have rolled out across the Great Southern Region,” Transport Minister Rita Saffioti said. 

Source: Government of Western Australia – Media Statements; Main Roads WA; Roads & Infrastructure Australia; The Southern Thunderer