Roadworks on Millbrook Rd test patience of residents — City says there is no new date for completion

The temporary closure of Millbrook Road to heavy vehicles is the latest development in a drawn-out roadworks project causing angst for residents. The roadworks north of Albany are more than two months behind schedule and completion could be months away. Millbrook Road connects Chester Pass Road to Albany Highway. A 2km stretch from Chester Pass Road to Warren Road has been undergoing reconstruction and widening since February. This week, the road was closed to heavy vehicles due to wet weather to minimise damage to the unsealed road surface and protect community members who use the road. City of Albany infrastructure, development and environment director Paul Camins said the council was working with the contractor to get the roadworks finished as soon as the weather allowed. “The contractor may need to consider a contingency plan, such as installing a temporary surface to get through the remainder of winter if needed, until the dry weather allows for a fast-tracked completion,” he said. “A number of factors, including total fire bans, contractor operational factors and COVID-19 restrictions have stretched the completion date of this project into this period of wet and unpredictable weather. “The wet weather is making it difficult for the contractor to complete the works, which is always a risk with jobs of this nature in Albany at this time of year. “It is acknowledged that this delay causes more than anticipated inconvenience to Millbrook Road users.” Mr Camins said the council had not incurred additional costs as a result of the delays. It hoped to reopen the road to all traffic today if the weather allowed.