Flexible pavement – believed to have five-to-10 times the lifespan of regular asphalt – will be used to build this massive $2.2 billion infrastructure project.
Construction materials company Boral will supply, deliver and lay 280 kilotonnes of flexible pavement using EME asphalt, which is comprised of multiple layers of material.
Boral says EME – an Australian-developed, French product launched almost a decade ago enables a thinner layer of the ultra-hard, high-flexing-resistant asphalt to be used, making it a more sustainable product.
It allows for the traffic load to be distributed among it, which ‘bends’ the asphalt and therefore creates more durability.
Tim Richards, executive general manager, asphalt at Boral, says the Coffs Harbour bypass is a significant infrastructure project that will better connect our major cities and ease congestion in the area.
“We have a proven track-record in delivering large-scale projects and being an innovative company; the flexible pavement design with EME asphalt mix being just one example. We are excited to be working with Transport for NSW, and proud to deliver one of the largest flexible pavement projects in the state.”
While initial works have already begun, the majority of asphalt work will commence mid year.
The Coffs Harbour bypass will feature three tunnels, 12 kilometres of new road, and about two kilometres of upgraded highway.
It is due to open to traffic in late 2026 and be completed by 2027, connecting Melbourne, Sydney and Brisbane.
The Coffs Harbour bypass is a joint venture between global engineering, property and infrastructure company Gamuda Australia and engineering and construction company Ferrovial, which will deliver the major package of work. Boral has been engaged as part of this.