After several months of campaigning for an improved design of the $929.3 million upgrade to the Bruce Highway between Caloundra Rd and the Sunshine Motorway, Member for Kawana, Jarrod Bleijie is pleased to see common sense has prevailed and community feedback taken onboard.

Originally designed without quick access to the Bruce Highway for Sippy Downs residents, Mr Bleijie said it has been a long fought campaign to ensure on and off ramps at the Sippy Downs interchange remained.

“The community of Sippy Downs made it clear they wanted to retain direct access to the Bruce Highway via the Sunshine Motorway on and off ramps,” Mr Bleijie said.

“This latest design provides residents the ability to access the Highway without navigating around the Western Service Road.

“Residents also told me they wanted the Wilson Road intersection upgraded and I’m delighted that both of these issues have been addressed.”

The new design layout also allows for a revised Bruce Highway Southbound off ramp to Pignata Road, providing access to local businesses in the Aussie World precinct.

Mr Bleijie said this was an important change to the design and has been warmly welcomed by businesses trading at Aussie World.

“After personally meeting with local business owners and representatives from the Save Exit 190 group, it was clear that this existing off ramp was heavily relied upon by businesses operating in the Aussie World precinct as well as local residents.

“I was pleased to champion the cause directly with the Regional Director for Main Roads to ensure this exit would be saved and I’m delighted we have been successful in achieving this,” he said.

Member of Save Exit 190 group and owner of Aussie World Garage, Steve Amos, said the retention of the Pignata Rd off ramp is a lifeline for businesses trading at Aussie World.

“Not only has the off ramp been retained, it’s been improved and upgraded resulting in additional safety for motorists and improved access for local residents and emergency services,” Mr Amos said.

Preliminary construction activities are expected to commence in late 2016, followed by major construction in mid-2017. Construction is expected to be completed in late 2020, weather permitting.

[ENDS] 16 September 2016