EXCLUSIVE - Construction start date for Sorell and Midway Point Causeways unveiled

CONSTRUCTION work on the much-anticipated duplication of Midway Point and Sorell Causeways is pegged to start at the end of this year.

The last hurdle is Federal Government environmental approval.

However, Infrastructure Minister Kerry Vincent said his department was anticipating a start to work by Christmas.

``As most would be aware we have done almost all the work, however, the last three parts of the South East traffic solution - the two causeways and the section past the Golf club - need environmental approval by the Federal Government,’’ Mr Vincent wrote exclusively for this newspaper.

``Approvals are anticipated in the near future, which will then allow tenders to be sourced ready for construction.

``Four of six projects have been completed in this $349.5 million program.

``Midway Point, the bypass and the overtaking lanes have all proved to be an enormous benefit to all of us who use these roads and the tourists love them.

``Designs have been developed to minimise the impacts to the environment and adjacent landowners.

``Subject to securing necessary legislative approvals, works are expected to start from the Airport Interchange to the Midway Point Causeway this year.

``Due to the very complex approvals required for duplicating the Midway Point and Sorell Causeways, including construction of a second McGees Bridge, the start time for the build is unclear but we are working hard towards starting this work at the end of the year.’’