EWL

The Victoria Coalition Government, Australia, has signed a contract with East West Connect to build the $6bn to $8bn East West Link roadway project in Melbourne.

The news comes a day after the government signed a $5.3bn contract with a consortium led by Lend Lease, Bouygues, Acciona and Capella Capital to finance, design and construct phase one of the roadway project.

The roadway includes the construction of twin 4.4km three-lane tunnels between Hoddle Street and City Link, and improvements to transport and community infrastructure across the 6.6km project corridor.

Victorian Treasurer Michael O’Brien said: "The total project will cost $6.8bn to deliver, with the State Government contributing $2bn.

"East West Connect will take on full responsibility for construction, operation and maintenance of the project, with the state receiving the benefit of tolls."

"We are creating a massive economic boon, with local businesses and workers set to reap the benefits from the East West Link project."

The project is expected to create employment for approximately 3,700 people in the region.

Victoria Premier Denis Napthine said: "We are creating a massive economic boon, with local businesses and workers set to reap the benefits from the East West Link project, both during construction and once the project opens, thanks to vastly improved transport links across the north of Melbourne.

"The main components of the roadway will be produced locally, including more than 90% of electrical cables and conduits. A precast facility will also be established in Melton to manufacture bridge beams and concrete tunnel lining segments."

The project remains subject to financial closure, which is expected to occur on 17 October.

Victoria roads and public transport minister Terry Mulder said: "With the contracts for the project now locked away, East West Connect can get on with the task of recruiting local suppliers and contractors, and employing the massive workforce of 3,700 people needed to build this landmark project.

"The Coalition Government is getting on with the job of delivering this project, and making sure that the economic benefits for Victoria are maximised with this unprecedented commitment to local content and local jobs for a project of this scale."

Image: The Eastern Freeway in Melbourne where the East West Link project will start. Photo: courtesy of BlackCab.