Preliminary works including vegetation clearing are underway for the $152 million Smithfield Bypass Project at Cairns.

Transport and Main Roads (TMR) said vegetation in the McGregor Rd roundabout area would be cleared from 21 – 23 January, with special precautions due to the presence of electric ants.

TMR acting district director (Far North Queensland) Ross Hodgman said vegetation clearing was necessary to allow the contractor to access public utility services.

The design and construct contract for the bypass project has been awarded to Highway Construction/Albem Operations Joint Venture.

“All vegetation growing within the McGregor Rd roundabout will be removed and relocated to the south of McGregor Rd within the area affected by electric ants to stop them from spreading to new locations,” Mr Hodgman said.

“TMR has conducted environmental assessments and has obtained the relevant permits and approvals as required. Environmental officers will be on site during the vegetation clearing to undertake fauna spotting and environmental assessment.

“The cleared vegetation will be disposed of in accordance with biosecurity requirements and recommendations.

“Once clearing is complete, the ground surface will be topsoiled and regrowth will be maintained as required.”

The Smithfield Bypass is expected to be completed late 2020, weather permitting.