Work to start on new Bruce Highway interchange

Member for Fisher Mal Brough was delighted to turn the first sod of the major new Bruce Highway interchange today to replace the Roys Road and Bells Creek Road intersections at Beerwah.
“This delivers the first instalment of the Coalition’s election commitment to the Sunshine Coast section of the Bruce Highway,” he said.
The $80.7 million upgrade would deliver critical safety benefits for the local community and other highway users.
The new interchange will be located 200 metres south of the existing Bells Creek intersection, Mr Brough said.
“It will allow for the closure of the existing at-grade intersections at Roys and Bells Creek roads.
“This vital project is part of the federal government’s $195 million funding commitment to upgrade interchanges on the highway between Brisbane and the Sunshine Coast.
“It includes a two-lane overpass over the highway near the Bells Creek Road intersection and new northbound and southbound entry and exit ramps.
“The upgrade will also provide local road connections to Roys, Bells Creek and Dianella roads and a bridge over Mellum Creek.
“New pavement will also be laid on the southbound lanes of a 4.5-kilometre section of the highway, north of Coochin Creek, to improve the road.”
Caloundra MP Mark McArdle said the state government would deliver the works on behalf of the Federal Government.
“This is an extremely important project for Sunshine Coast residents and other motorists who use this section of the highway, particularly from a safety viewpoint.
“I’m pleased this interchange will also provide a major boost to local businesses who will be able to save time and costs and operate more efficiently.”
Work will start this month and take about 18 months to complete, weather permitting.
Day and nightworks will be required to complete the upgrade.
Traffic control will be in place during the works, including traffic controllers, reduced speed limits and construction signs to safeguard drivers and workers.
Mr McArdle thanked motorists for their patience while the works are carried out.
Golding Contractors Pty Ltd was awarded the contract to deliver the works on behalf of the state government.
For up-to-date information on traffic disruptions please visit www.131940.qld.gov.au or call 13 19 40.