Global law firm Ashurst has advised Transport for NSW (TfNSW) on the awarding of a A$722 million contract to a joint venture between John Holland and CPB to build the first stage of the new Western Harbour Tunnel in Sydney.
Ashurst has been advising TfNSW on the Western Harbour Tunnel and Beaches Link (WHTBL) program for a number of years after assisting with the development of the delivery strategy.
Construction of the initial 1.7 kilometres of mainline tunnels from Rozelle to Birchgrove is due to begin mid-year. The Western Harbour Tunnel will link WestConnex at Rozelle with the Warringah Freeway at North Sydney via 6.5 kilometre tunnels under Sydney Harbour, with three lanes in each direction.
Ashurst partner Angus Foley commented:
"We congratulate TfNSW on the successful signing of the contract to deliver the first stage of the Western Harbour Tunnel. This project will be a key part of plans to improve travel times and reduce traffic congestion in Sydney. Ashurst has been pleased to assist TfNSW on the multiple complex procurement processes for this major infrastructure project and sees this latest contract as a further demonstration of TfNSW's commercial approach to engaging with the infrastructure delivery market."
Ashurst partner Krista Payne added:
"This is the exciting next step in the WHTBL program after the Warringah Freeway Upgrade project, which Ashurst helped TfNSW close in September last year. With contracts now let at both ends of the Western Harbour Tunnel, the attention turns to the procurement of the second package of main works and we look forward to continuing to work with TfNSW on this major project."
The Ashurst team was led by partner Angus Foley, supported by partner Krista Payne and senior associates Laura Hillhouse and Thomas Darling.
