Wanneroo Council has endorsed the start of detailed design and project development for the staged upgrade of Flynn Drive from Wanneroo Road to Old Yanchep Road.
The project will scope the transformation of a 6km section of the road into a four-lane dual carriageway.
Mayor Tracey Roberts said the City hoped to secure external funding for the project, which would support the industrial development of the northern corridor.
“Neerabup is expected to be one of the biggest industrial estates in Perth on completion, and Flynn Drive will be crucial to its economic development,” she said.
“At full capacity, the 1,000-hectare site is projected to employ more than 20,000 people and will support local jobs and economic growth in the City.
“Our rapidly growing communities in Banksia Grove and East Wanneroo will also benefit from enhanced connectivity and improved road safety.
“The volume of traffic on this section of road is expected to double by 2031. Undertaking detailed design and project development now means we would be ready to deliver the project in stages should funding become available.”
The development of Flynn Drive will connect Neerabup to the key east-west road connections needed to move goods within the City and between the City and regional freight links including Northlink and the Perth Darwin Highway.
The City has advocated for the Flynn Drive upgrade since 2014. The City applied unsuccessfully for Federal funding under the National Stronger Regions Fund in 2014, 2015 and 2016 and the Building Better Regions Fund in 2018.
The City continues to advocate for project funding at both Federal and State Government level.
By opening access to the Neerabup Industrial Area, the Flynn Drive upgrade would enhance job creation, attract investment and drive much-needed economic growth as businesses recover from the financial impacts of COVID-19.