That Shire of Ashburton has determined to express concern about the fact that the construction of a sealed road link between Tom Price and Karratha has not been included as a priority in the Transform WA road works program.

The Transform WA projects are scheduled for completion by no later than 2007/08, and have taken priority over other capital works initiatives.

At its May meeting the Council was advised that within the Western Australian Road Program 1998/99 – 2007/08, tentative fund allocations have been allocated by region.

Within the Pilbara Region, the Tom Price-Karratha Road has $115.0M allocated, however, it is listed under Local Roads and no definitive time frame has been suggested.

Shire Chief Executive Officer, Mr David Carey said that this is cause for concern because the fact that it is listed under Local Roads does not indicate whether it is to be funded, and constructed for that matter by MRWA.

"If it is not prioritised as a State Road, council may be required to contribute to the project for it to proceed," said Mr Carey

"The fact that it is not listed as a Transform WA, capital works program suggests that it will not take priority until all other Transform WA projects are completed by the scheduled time of 2007/08."

"Its postponement could jeopardise the project all together."

The Shire will make representations to State and Federal politicians, the Shadow Minister for Transport and Premier with regard to funding for the Tom Price/Karratha Road.

For further information please contact Council’s Manager technical and Development Services, Mr Jason Gick on (08) 9189 1029.