Major construction has started on the Western Highway Upgrade between Buangor and Ararat in Victoria, Australia.
CPB Contractors, part of CIMIC Group, is delivering the project in partnership with VIDA and Seymour Whyte.
The project will add 12km of highway capacity in both directions and is scheduled for completion in 2029. It will also include new central medians and safety barriers, a Hillside Road interchange, and bridges over the railway line and the Hopkins River.
The latest phase follows site investigations and enabling works carried out earlier this year.
CIMIC said the contract is expected to generate approximately A$205m ($143m) in revenue for CPB Contractors.
CIMIC Group CEO Jason Spears said: “CPB Contractors brings extensive experience delivering complex road and transport projects in regional Australia and we look forward to applying that expertise to the Western Highway Upgrade.
“Through a collaborative approach and a focus on safe and efficient delivery, we will ensure the project supports Victoria's long-term economic growth, improving freight productivity and connections across western Victoria.”
The upgrade extends the duplicated section of the Western Highway between Ballarat and Buangor.
According to the Victorian Government, most of the upgrade would be built over 18 months to the south of the existing highway and Mt Langi Ghiran State Park.
The approach is intended to reduce disruption to drivers, although traffic management will be required when work is under way between 6am and 6pm, Monday to Friday.
The wider programme represents total investment of about A$1.17bn, comprising A$970.9m from the Australian Government and the Victorian Government’s contribution of A$195.8m.
CPB Contractors managing director Craig Nuttall said: “Through meaningful engagement with communities, suppliers and stakeholders, our team is committed to creating local employment opportunities, supporting regional businesses and investing in training initiatives that help build Victoria’s future workforce. As the project moves into major works, we will continue to prioritise sustainability and responsible resource use, ensuring it delivers lasting benefits and a positive legacy for the region.”
