A passenger in a 4WD has died on an iconic dirt road in Western Australia … just weeks before work to seal its surface was due to begin.
The 47-year-old died from his injuries after being thrown from a 1987 Toyota LandCruiserwhen it collided with a sand bank and rolled on the Cape Leveque Road north of Broome. Two other people in the vehicle were treated for minor injuries.
Main Roads is due to begin work next month to construct and bitumenise the remaining 90 kilometre middle section of the 200 kilometre long Broome to Cape Leveque Road.
Main Roads said it was progressing with preparatory works for the planned construction and sealing of the final section, which will take three to four years to complete and carried out in stages.
“The process to seek environmental and heritage approvals for the southern section of the road is continuing, as required,” a Main Roads spokesperson said.
Kimberley MP Josie Farrer told the West Australian newspaper the feedback she has received so far from people on the peninsula was support for the road being sealed as it would allow all-weather travel and be safer.
“It should mean community stores will pay less for everyday home goods as well as a larger range of tourist business opportunities,” she said. “But I know there are concerns about privacy and possible damage to the land and fishing grounds due to increased numbers of visitors.”
The road to Cape Leveque has long been well used by grey nomads seeking adventure and a relaxing time in the remote area next to the Indian Ocean.
Favourite camping spots along the way including James Price Point, Quondong Point, Beagle Bay, Middle Lagoon and the resort at Cape Leveque itself.
· Have you driven the Cape Leveque Road? Do you welcome its sealing? Comment below.
F#%/ YEAH! Thought I was going to die on that road!!
We have travelled the road and must admit that sealing would be safer. I can understand how locals would be apprehensive about the area being spoiled. Glad we did it before sealing, more exciting.