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.