South Australia’s north-south corridor is expected to be completed on time, thanks to the likelihood that River Torrens’ assignment to Darlington (T2D) will be completed ahead of schedule.
The use of three tunnel boring machines (TBMs) – down from two – running at the same time has accelerated the task, meaning the T2D task could be completed before its original deadline of 2031.
The project, when completed, will allow motorists to avoid 21 traffic lights between the River Torrens and Darlington and will complete a 78 kilometer north-south non-stop corridor between Gawler and Old Noarlunga.
The procurement of three TBMs means both the north and southbound tunnels can not only be constructed to be purpose-built for local conditions but can also be constructed concurrently.
The T2D allocation is jointly funded through the South Australia state government and the federal government.
South Australian Premier Peter Malinautkas said the allocation would address shipping in the state.
“For decades, South Australians have been waiting for an uninterrupted north-south adventure from Adelaide,” says Malinauskas. “We’re finally getting there.
“This is a milestone where thousands of South Australians will be hired to build the largest infrastructure task in the state’s history.
“We will have 3 tunnel boring machines in operation out of two, which will ensure that this task is delivered on time.
“In fact, when the TBMs arrive next summer, we hope that the delivery time can be brought forward.
“Once completed, this task will allow traffic to travel between West Hindmarsh and Darlington in just nine minutes, saving 30 to 40 minutes of peak hour travel time.
A consortium consisting of John Holland, Bouygues Construction, Arcadis Australia, Jacobs and Ventia has been chosen as the alliance partner to undertake the task, which will be the largest infrastructure allocation in South Australia’s history.
The consortium’s tender details a key plan to acquire three two-tunnel machines.
The consortium’s improvements to the proposed 2022 reference design include:
South Australia’s Minister for Infrastructure and Transport, Tom Koutsantonis, said awarding the tenders to the consortium was a step in the project’s long-term structure.
“This is a historic day for South Australia, as we now know who will deliver the infrastructure allocation in our state’s history, and we hope to do so faster than expected,” Koutsantonis said.
“The successful consortium has a wealth of wisdom and experience and is committed to delivering on the task within budget, offering South Australians significant benefits. “
The main structure will be installed in the south reservoir of Clovelly Park in the coming weeks.
The project is expected to generate 5,500 jobs each year, 90% of which will be filled by local companies. More than three hundred local companies have already expressed interest in participating as subcontractors.
The consortium has also committed to creating at least six per cent indigenous jobs in the project, as well as creating more than six hundred jobs for apprentices and trainees and more than 220 long-term unemployed people.
Painting of the main structure is expected to begin in 2025 and primary drilling of the south tunnel is expected to begin in the second half of 2026.
$20,000
$129,950
$407,195
$77,000
$53,990
$275,000
$6,000
$379,900
$137,500
$55,000
$368,000
$31,900
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