MEDIA RELEASE
16 OCTOBER 2009
PACIFIC HIGHWAY UPGRADE AT
DEVILS PULPIT A STEP CLOSER
The Pacific Highway upgrade at Devils Pulpit is now a step closer with the RTA
submitting its project application to the Department of Planning (DoP).
The project application was lodged with the DoP on 30 September 2009 as part of
the next stage in the process – the environmental assessment.
The Australian Government has fully funded the $62 million project as part of its
Nation Building Program and its continuing joint commitment with the NSW
Government to upgrade the Pacific Highway.
An RTA spokesperson said the work at Devils Pulpit, about 66 kilometres north of
Grafton, is part of the overall Pacific Highway upgrade between Hexham and the
Queensland border.
“When finished, the Devils Pulpit project will complete five kilometres of four-lane
divided highway, the spokesperson said.
“Achieving planning approval would bring the project one step closer towards the
construction phase.
“This important project will provide significant benefits to road users, including
improved safety and reduced travel times.”
The spokesperson said the DoP will consult various public agencies before providing
the RTA with a list of requirements for the environmental assessment of the proposal.
“The environmental assessment will outline the proposal, its potential impacts and
the proposed environmental controls,” the spokesperson said.
“The assessment will focus on the key issues identified by the DoP and other
agencies, including potential social, economic and environmental impacts.
“There will be ongoing community consultation during the preparation of the
environmental assessment and the refinement of the concept design. When finished,
the environmental assessment and refined design will be placed on display for
community comment.
“At the end of the display the RTA will respond to the issues raised in the
submissions received and may modify the proposal to minimise impacts on the
environment,” the spokesperson said.
Details of the application are available on the Department of Planning website at
on Iluka Road to Woodburn) or by phoning the project team on 1800 258 118 (toll
free).
CONTACT:
RTA Media Unit 8588 5999
NEWS 
