Victoria’s largest road development - the North East Link - is one step closer to beginning construction with the announcement of two shortlisted contractors to deliver the first package of works for the $15.8 billion project.
Laing O’Rourke and CPB Contractors have both been shortlisted for the first package of works that is valued at $200 million. The winning contractor will be delivering a range of power, utility and water works in preparation for major construction.
“Early works on this massive project will begin next year, paving the way for major construction,” Premier Daniel Andrews said.
In addition, it has also been announced that the Environment Effects Statement (EES) for the North East Link will be on display starting this month and community sessions are going to be conducted across the north-east and eastern suburbs of Melbourne in April and May.
Local residences and businesses that could be impacted by the delivery of the project have already been engaged with by the project team who will continue to give support to locals through the planning, design and construction phases.
In November of last year, Expressions of Interest (EOIs) were also sought after for the $7-9 billion primary package that includes the construction of the North East Link tunnels. Shortlisted builders will be asked to submit tenders later this year.
The North East Link is the missing link that will connect the Eastern Freeway and the M80 Ring Road. The project is comprised of a six-kilometre tunnel that will run under the Banyule Flats and the Yarra River as well as upgrade the Eastern Freeway in order to streamline traffic and slash congestion along the route. A dedicated busway is going to be built down the middle of Eastern Freeway as well.
“North East Link will slash congestion, get trucks off local streets and create more than 10,000 jobs,” Minister for Transport Infrastructure Jacinta Allan said.
The North East Link is set to open to traffic by 2027.
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Source: Premier of Victoria; North East Link Project; Global Construction Review; The Construction Index
