Detour route change at north end of town

Post edit: detour timing update to below media release

This morning the Shire issued information to advise the public a revised detour would commence today (Thursday 20 February).  However we will be maintaining current access for traffic entering town from the north for several more days at this time. We will provide details confirming changes to the detours as soon as possible. Please note that the current detour will be in place over the long weekend. The Shire would like to thank the community for your continued understanding whilst we complete this project and acknowledge your ongoing support for Main Street business.

From today (Thursday 20 February), light vehicle traffic entering the Margaret River town site from the north will be diverted up Higgins Street and along Town View Terrace. Heavy vehicle traffic is requested to travel on the Perimeter Road to access the town centre.  The detours, which are part of the Main Street Makeover works, will accommodate a realignment of stormwater infrastructure to avoid a conflict in utility services underground. Main Street Makeover Project Manager Peter Brown said the revised alignment of stormwater pipes meant a section of Bussell Highway would need to be closed. “The location of 1.5m diameter stormwater pipes to be installed between Tunbridge Street and the rain garden is being moved from the northbound carriageway to the centre of the road," he said.  “In order for works crew to prepare for excavation, a portion of the road will need to be closed.  “This means southbound traffic will be diverted up Higgins Street whilst excavation works take place and pipes are laid." Local traffic will still be able to access the Coles Express fuel station and City Discount Tyres with the road closed just south of this point. Visitors to JahRoc Galleries, Swings & Roundabouts Taphouse, Margaret River Bakery, Amato Vino, Margaret River Collaborative and Innetown Backpackers are reminded that there is some parking available behind most of these shops on Ned Higgins Lane. Full pedestrian access will be maintained in front of these shops throughout. Pedestrians will be able to access Margaret River Happy Times gift shop on foot. Access for guests staying at Margarets Forest Holiday Apartments will be provided. "To date community support for Main Street businesses has been fantastic and we encourage everyone  to continue to support local business through this period," Mr Brown said.  As the project progresses further, there will be changes made to detour routes. For more information visit mainstreetmakeover.com.au or contact Shire on 9780 5255 for any further enquiries. The latest detour maps are available for download.