Tenders called for Lobethal freight route

Tenders are now being called for the $14 million Lobethal Freight Access Upgrade—an Australian Government-funded initiative to improve supply chains and export competitiveness.Federal Minister for Urban Infrastructure Paul Fletcher said the project would provide a B-Double connection between Palmer and Lobethal, continuing the Australian Government’s commitment to improve freight productivity.

“The Lobethal Freight Access Upgrade will improve safety, productivity and efficiency in the transport of goods to and from the Lobethal area, which in turn will benefit the region by supporting economic growth, creating jobs and enhancing export competitiveness,” Mr Fletcher said.

“This project will upgrade a 34 kilometre route to provide heavy vehicle access from the existing Adelaide Hills freight route at Palmer, through Tungkillo and Mount Torrens to the Thomas Foods International facility in Lobethal.”

Member for Barker Tony Pasin said that once the project is complete, the freight route to Lobethal would be approved for Higher Productivity Vehicles (HPVs). This includes B-Doubles up to 26 metres long, as currently only vehicles up to ‘standard’ semi-trailers 19 metres long can service the Lobethal region.

“Some of the major improvements on the freight route will include junction and culvert upgrades for safe turning movements; upgrades to bridge structures and road pavement; safety improvements including road widening and shoulder sealing; and road alignment improvements,” Mr Pasin said.

“The Lobethal upgrade will improve productivity and reduce ‘last mile’ access issues, especially in regional areas. The Australian Government is working closely with industry to improve freight productivity, including through upgrades like this, as well as initiatives such as the National Freight and Supply Chain Strategy.”

The tender will be available at www.tenders.sa.gov.au. Works on the project are due to start later in 2017 and scheduled for completion by late 2018, weather permitting.

The Lobethal Freight Access Upgrade is fully funded by the Australian Government.

Paul Fletcher MP

Federal Member for Bradfield

Minister for Urban Infrastructure

Tony Pasin MP

Federal Member for Barker

CONTACT: Charlotte Edmunds 8531 2466