Westlink

New tunnels planned to relieve congestion on the West Gate Freeway

As the $1.39 billion M1 project nears completion, the State Government has announced its plan to relieve the peak hour congestion on the West Gate Bridge.

After a $10 million feasibility study, the Brumby government has suggested three tentative options to link the Port of Melbourne and Footscray:

• A 3.5km tunnel leading from the Port of Melbourne to Paramount Rd (near Somerville Rd) in West Footscray

• Two 2km tunnels beginning in the Port of Melbourne. The first will end near the corner of Sunshine Rd and Geelong Rd and the 2^nd near West Footscray train station

While the longer tunnel will have no impact on residential areas, the two shorter options will require the compulsory purchase of a small number of houses, in accordance to acquisition laws.

Planning is in place for both tunnels will lead to an 8km freeway, travelling through Sunshine West and linking with the Western Ring Rd.

Execution of the development relies on funding from Canberra, with a final decision expected by the end of the year.