Homes saved from resumption as state scraps inland highway near Caboolture

More than a hundred properties have been saved from resumption after the government officially scrapped plans for a new inland highway north of Brisbane.

A map of the proposed stage 4 options for the Bruce Highway Western Alternative corridor, which has now been scrapped. Picture: Supplied

More than a hundred properties have been saved from resumption after the government officially scrapped plans for a new inland highway.

Stage four of the Bruce Highway Western Alternative, dubbed the “Moreton Bay Motorway” involved a 50km route north of Brisbane, connecting Beerburrum and Moodlu, through Elimbah north of Caboolture. The route was estimated to affect up to 140 properties through whole or partial resumption.

Residents got letters from the government informing them of the route and asking for feedback in December 2023.

Outraged local community members petitioned the government to have the route changed, sending more than 850 submissions over a 10-week consultation period.

A spokesman for the Department of Transport and Main Roads at the time claimed there would be “no property impacts” during the planning stage, despite mapping showing two route options that cut through development areas marked for “potential growth”.

Premier David Crisafulli at a meeting about the proposed road at Elimbah before the state election. Picture: Liam Kidston

“Resumptions would only occur if construction was imminent,” the spokesman said.

“The BHWA is a long-term planning project and although TMR has commenced early planning, time frames for more detailed planning, design and construction are not known at this time.”

The new LNP government has announced the stage four route has been ruled out, with an alternative yet to be decided.

Minister for Transport and Main Roads Brent Mickelberg said investigations into an alternative route were expected to be complete in early 2025. A detailed update on alternatives will be made public.

“We’re not just planning for a future motorway; we’re shaping the future of transport in our state, ensuring it is integrated, sustainable and serves our rapidly growing communities and keeps Queenslanders moving,” Mr Mickelberg said.

Elimbah resident Nicki Welch said she was relieved her property would not be impacted. “They were only going to take a little of mine but both my neighbours were gone, so I’m very happy,” she said.

“My kids still have nine acres to play on and I can keep my animals and I won’t have a big massive wall going down my acreages stopping the noise of the highway.”

Ms Welch, who participated in the online Facebook groups, community forums and petitions, said she was glad the government had listened and responded to the community.

“We were listened to,” she said. “I’ll keep giving my opinion and if I feel they’ll go through other people’s houses again, I’ll back those people 100 per cent. I know it might have to go through some houses but it needs to be as minimal as possible.”

According to the government, nearly three-quarters of submissions received revolved around the corridor location and provided alternative route suggestions, including the use of existing roads.

The public can subscribe to project updates through the TMR website or phone the project team on 1800 955 799.