The Milton Ulladulla bypass will progress to the final design phase with the NSW Government today announcing the location for the southern connection.
Minister for Regional Transport and Roads Sam Farraway said following significant consultation, the $940 million bypass will connect back to the Princes Highway with a roundabout just north of Canberra Crescent at Burrill Lake.
“This decision allows us to move forward, giving confidence to the community that we are getting on with the job of building this important upgrade,” Mr Farraway said.
“The Burrill Lake Co-Design committee has been an important part of the community engagement. Throughout the co-design process, we have listened to the members, heard their views and considered their feedback including on alternate routes.”
Mr Farraway said further consideration had been given to options that bypass Burrill Lake including the Burrill Lake – inner west route which would have been 4.77 kilometres longer than the existing bypass corridor and removal of 39,000 trees, including 16,000 trees in the National Park.
“We’ve worked hard to ensure the location for the southern connection to the bypass minimises impacts on Burrill Lake and helps to protect the unique character of the township,” Mr Farraway said.
“Balancing the needs of the whole community is always difficult, however reducing congestion currently experienced in the Milton and Ulladulla town centres and moving ahead with our plans to deliver a safer, more efficient and better connected Princes Highway is our priority
“This plan futureproofs the Princes Highway, leaving open the option of a full bypass of Burrill Lake if traffic growth shows that’s needed in the future.”
“The focus is now on continuing investigations within the Milton Ulladulla bypass corridor to progress the project which represents an almost billion dollar investment in safer journeys along the South Coast.”
Member for the South Coast Shelley Hancock welcomed the news that a decision has been made and looked forward to seeing the concept designs.
“Milton Ulladulla is a popular tourist destination and every school holidays our roads are jammed packed with holidaymakers,” Mrs Hancock said.
“Delivering on this bypass will provide a safer and smoother trip and continue our legacy of upgrading the Princes Highway.
“In the short term, important safety upgrades will be carried out south of Ulladulla to ensure safer and more efficient journeys for motorists including additional overtaking lanes, intersection upgrades, shoulder widening, and rest area upgrades.”
The Australian Government has committed $752 million towards this $940 million project, with the NSW Government committing the remaining $188 million.
Images: 2ST, Google Maps
