The Government of Victoria in Australia has approved construction of the North East Link road in order to address traffic congestion in Melbourne’s north, east, and south-east. 

For the North East Link project, the government has allocated A$100m ($74.7m) from the Victorian Budget 2017/18 to complete critical design, planning, and preconstruction works before signing contracts in 2019.

The government anticipates that this project would create nearly 5,000 employment opportunities during the construction process. 

Victoria Premier Daniel Andrews said: “This project just makes sense, more jobs, and less congestion in the north, east, and south. The missing link needs to be built, and we are getting on with the job.”

The North East Link will connect the Metropolitan Ring Road (M80) at Greensborough, to the Eastlink or to the Eastern Freeway

The project will be carried out by the North East Link Authority and will begin works immediately by conducting geotechnical investigations at 24 sites across Melbourne’s north-eastern suburbs.

Geotechnical investigations will be providing complete details about the conditions under the earth, including type and strength of rock beneath the ground surface, as well as the location of groundwater.

As part of planning and engineering works, authorities will also perform field investigations, equipment procurement, service investigations, site establishment and upgrades to existing infrastructure. 

The environmental, social, and engineering investigations will help authorities to develop a suitable design for the project, in order to protect the existing urban areas, as well as reduce the environmental impact. 

The independent Infrastructure Victoria, an independent statutory authority, has recognised North East as the highest priority next infrastructure project for the Victorian state.

"When we complete the ring road, you’ll be able to drive from Ringwood to Tullamarine without stopping at a single traffic light."

Victoria Minister for Roads Luke Donnellan said: “When we complete the ring road, you’ll be able to drive from Ringwood to Tullamarine without stopping at a single traffic light.

“We’ve listened to the community and the experts. It’s time to complete the missing link in Melbourne’s road network.”

By mid-year, the government will initiate the consultation process with the local residents, motorists, the freight industry and businesses. 

A detailed design and engagement will be carried out throughout the year, while procurement process for the project will begin next year, and construction works will start after contracts are signed.

Image: North East Link project gets $74.7m funding from the Victorian Government in Australia. Photo: courtesy of Government of Victoria.