Works commence on new 700m acceleration lane for Binningup Road traffic heading north on Forrest Highway

Users of the Forrest Highway in Binningup are being urged to take care as the construction on a road safety project gets under way.

Work commenced on Wednesday on a new 700m acceleration lane being build for Binningup Road traffic heading north on Forrest Highway.

A free-flow left turn lane leading on to the acceleration lane will also be constructed, along with new line marking, lighting and signage.

Those travelling on the highway can expect a lane closure during the construction period, with vehicle speeds to be reduced to 60km/h near the project.

Transwa will temporarily relocate its Binningup northbound stop point to the nearby Binningup Roadhouse while works are conducted.

Transport Minister Rita Saffioti said it was one of a series of improvements being delivered along the busy highway.

“We have already completed the construction of an acceleration lane from Wellesley Road to Forrest Highway southbound, to cater for the increasing number of heavy vehicles exiting the area east of the highway,” she said.

“Once works for the final acceleration lane and intersection upgrades are completed next year, road users will experience an improved journey.”

Murray-Wellington MLA Robyn Clarke said the upgrades were critical to the safety and efficiency of the Forrest Highway.

“Locals know how frustrating it can be trying to merge on to Forrest Highway at some of these intersections, particularly during peak tourist season, and these changes will ensure their journeys are safer,” she said.

Construction on the Binningup Road intersection works is set to be completed by late November.

Planning is continuing for northbound acceleration lanes at Forestry Road and Preston Beach Road, alongside improvements to the Forrest Highway-Myalup Beach Road intersection.

The additional works are expected to be completed in late 2024.