Traffic investigation at Walkerston

Overview:

An alternative route for through vehicles in Walkerston will enhance the efficiency of the Peak Downs Highway and improve pedestrian and local traffic safety.

Location:

Intersection of the Bruce Highway and Stockroute Road, before deviating south and joins the Peak Downs Highway.

Benefits:

Increased mining activity to the west has resulted in increased through traffic and heavy vehicle movements through Walkerston.

Project info

This project is not currently funded; however Main Roads is proceeding with the detailed design.

The bypass will also allow for a safe and efficient limited access route for the heavy and dangerous goods vehicles from Paget to the mines.

There were three stages of consultation with the community:

  • Stage One: identification of issues facing residents in Walkerston as well as motorists and transport operators using the Peak Downs Highway. A total of 280 submissions were received. The majority of respondents were in favour of a bypass of Walkerston.
  • Stage Two: from the issues identified in stage one, four bypass options were developed and presented to the community for comment. These options were:
    • Option 1: Stockroute Road plus a future inner Walkerston deviation
    • Option 2: Alexandria Road plus a future inner Walkerston deviation
    • Option 3: Old Pleystowe Road plus a future inner Walkerston deviation
    • Option 4: Homebush Road plus an inner Walkerston deviation.
    • Option 5: Walkerston – Homebush Road/Stockroute Road plus a future inner Walkerston deviation.

    A total of 450 submissions were received as part of stage two. Some respondents suggested using existing road corridors. This led to the development of a fifth option.

    Stage Two Extended: The fifth option was presented to the community for comment. At this stage, no options had been eliminated. Consultation closed on the 2 May 2008.

    After analysing the options, option 1 — Stockroute Road — was identified as the preferred corridor for the future bypass of Walkerston. The future inner Walkerston deviation has not been included as part of the preferred route.

    This option follows Stockroute Road at its eastern end but deviates to the south at its western end. It has the following features:

    • Removes vehicles transporting heavy and dangerous goods from the main street of Walkerston, improving the safety.
    • Provides direct connection with the expanding industrial area of Paget.
    • Improves the safety and efficiency of the Peak Downs Highway.
    • Delays the requirement for duplication of the Peak Downs Highway.
    • Reduces the conflicts between commuter vehicles and heavy and dangerous goods vehicles using the Peak Downs Highway between City Gates and Walkerston.

    Main Roads recently finalised the alignment within the Stockroute Road corridor and is currently preparing a report to submit to the government in early 2009 to seek funding for construction.

    Map of preliminary alignment (PDF, 1.92 MB)

    Contact Information

    Email: mackay.office@mainroads.qld.gov.au
    Phone: 1300 736 754

    Community info

    The Department of Main Roads recently completed an investigation into traffic at Walkerston. As part of this study, Main Roads sought feedback from the Walkerston community and other key stakeholders.

    Public concerns have been raised regarding the operational safety of Dutton Street (main street in Walkerston).

    Last updated: 12 June 2009