The most extensive upgrade to the Stuart Highway in decades will be funded with $25 million provided by BHP Billiton following the approval of the proposed Olympic Dam expansion.

 

Announcing the upgrade, the SA Minister for Mineral Resources and Energy Tom Koutsantonis  said it was anticipated that the Olympic Dam expansion will lead to hundreds of trucks creating increased traffic movements as construction material is transferred from Port Augusta to Roxby Downs.

 

“Long after that work is completed, the upgraded highway will remain providing better access to regional South Australia and providing economic benefits to Whyalla, Port Augusta and Port Pirie.

 

“More and more the Stuart Highway is becoming the main artery for our mining industry. By widening the road and sealing the shoulders to create a 3.5 metre wide traffic lane between Port Augusta and Olympic Dam, this Government is ensuring this vital artery doesn’t become clogged.”

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The upgrade is part of $1.2 billion in preliminary works and equipment contracts announced by BHP Billiton ahead of approval for the expansion project, which is expected to be considered this year.

 

South Australian companies PD Excavations and Bardavcol have been awarded contracts for works on the Stuart Highway and on the road from Pimba to Olympic Dam.

 

Shoulder sealing and road widening along the Stuart Highway from Port Augusta to Pimba and then to the mine site at Olympic Dam will be carried out in three stages with first works beginning 1 February. All work is expected to be completed by September 2012, weather permitting.

 

Work on the Port Augusta North section will be followed in late February/early March by the Pimba South section. The upgrade also includes the Pimba to Olympic Dam Road to Roxby Downs. Department of Planning, Transport and Infrastructure advises traffic road work speed restrictions will apply and motorists may encounter minor delays during the work on the upgrade.