Construction of Western Freeway to commence in 2010

A consortium led by Leighton Holdings' John Holland, in alliance with VicRoads and Aecom, has won the contract to build the new Western Freeway between Melton and Bacchus Marsh, west of Melbourne, Australia.

The AUD$ 200 million (US$ 171 million) contract involves a southbound extension of the existing freeway linking Harkness Road at Melton West with Bacchus Marsh Road at Bacchus Marsh. The project also involves the construction of a new interchange at Woolpack Road, which will provide connections to the Freeway.

Group managing director at John Holland said, "This award reflects our existing relationship with VicRoads and our strong performance on previous road projects in Victoria."

The Australian government will contribute AUD$ 160 million ($ 137 million) towards the cost of the project from its Nation Building programme, while the remaining AUD 38 million (US$ 32 million) will be met by the Victorian government. Work will commence early in 2010 with completion scheduled for 2012.

General manager of John Holland's southern region said, "This project has been awarded both on the strength of our project team and the innovative solutions we've developed to ensure efficient delivery. At the heart of our solution is a focus to provide value for money for the State of Victoria."