There are many environmental considerations in the vicinity of the project area that must be rigorously evaluated. Any proposal put forward for the western extension of Roe Highway will be stringently reviewed at both State and Commonwealth government levels as part of the environmental approvals process.

Our attention will be on ways to minimise the impact on the environment in the immediate vicinity of the road reserve whilst exploring possibilities where we can enhance the environment in the long term with a focus on wetland water quality, flora and fauna habitat and social amenity. We are committed to going beyond the statutory environmental approvals process and involving the community and stakeholders in determining how we achieve this.

Our work will involve investigations and analyses, encompassing:

• Flora and fauna
• Aquatic ecology
• Water quality
• Ground water and aquifers
• Air quality and dust
• Public safety and risk
• Noise and vibration

The research outcomes, along with gathered information will be used by the design team to develop sustainable design options that are environmentally compatible, publically acceptable, economically viable and technically feasible. There may also be opportunities for environmental enhancement.

These design options, together with a synopsis of the research findings, will be presented to the relevant State and Commonwealth Government authorities as part of the environmental approvals process.