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Parliamentary Questions


Question Without Notice No. 1235 asked in the Legislative Council on 27 November 2018 by Hon Diane Evers

Parliament: 40 Session: 1

LITHIUM MINING — GREENBUSHES

1235. Hon DIANE EVERS to the minister representing the Minister for Transport:

I refer to the anticipated increase in lithium mining in Greenbushes in the south west.

(1) Has the government estimated the additional costs to road maintenance and upgrades as a result of any expected increase in the number of trucks transporting lithium by road?

(2) If yes to (1), what was the result?

(3) Who is responsible for any increases in costs for road maintenance and upgrades?

(4) Has the government consulted with the local community on the impact of additional trucks along the proposed route?

(5) If no to (4), why not?

(6) What will the government do to mitigate safety risks resulting from additional trucks on the road?

Hon STEPHEN DAWSON replied:

I thank the honourable member for some notice of the question.

(1)–(2) Estimates have not yet been undertaken by Main Roads WA.

(3) Main Roads is responsible for state road maintenance and upgrades. However, Talison Lithium currently makes contributions for its haulage operations to Main Roads under a road maintenance, rehabilitation and improvement deed.

(4)–(5) Consultation has not been undertaken by Main Roads. South Western Highway is designed for the transport of goods and is permitted for use by heavy vehicles.

(6) Main Roads continues to undertake extensive safety improvements along South Western Highway. Over the last few years, Main Roads has sealed shoulders, improved safety barriers and improved intersections. Overtaking lanes have also been upgraded and, recently, the northbound passing lane at Cundinup has been extended.