29 November 2004
Government Awards Contract For Design of West MacDonnell Ranges Tourist Loop Section
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Dr Chris Burns MLA
Minister for Transport and Infrastructure
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The Government’s plans to seal the West MacDonnell Ranges Tourist Loop road have moved another step forward with the awarding of a contract to design and document the section of Namatjira Drive from the 86km mark to the 141km mark.
Transport and Infrastructure Minister Dr Chris Burns said the $300,000 contract has been awarded to Kellog, Brown and Root Pty Ltd.
“This design work is the forerunner to the upgrade and sealing of this section of road from Glen Helen to Gosse Bluff,” Dr Burns said.
“Gosse Bluff, or Tnorala, is the site of a comet impact, and is of great significance to the local Aboriginal custodians. I can highly recommend it as a tourist destination, having paid a visit while holidaying in Central Australia in August.”
This year’s Budget included a $38 million program over three years to seal the West MacDonnell Ranges Tourist Loop.
The upgrade will involve completing the seal of Namatjira Drive through the West MacDonnells and sealing from Hermannsburg through to Kings Canyon along Larapinta Drive.
“Upgrading these roads is an integral part of the Government’s plans to develop tourism jobs in the Centre,” Dr Burns said.
“These roads go through some of the most magnificent country in the Territory. By upgrading them to sealed standard, more Territorians and tourists will visit to enjoy this experience.
“The new road will drive economic development by creating new jobs, new business opportunities and injecting millions of dollars into the economy.”