General News
22 December, 2025
Upgrades commence on highway at Westbrook
Construction will soon begin on vital safety improvements along the Toowoomba–Athol Road and Gore Highway, between James Street in Harristown and Wyreema–Athol Road at Athol.
The project, funded by the Queensland Government under the High Risk Roads initiative through the Targeted Road Safety Program, will enhance safety and efficiency for freight and urban and rural traffic travelling in and out of Toowoomba from the southwest.
The safety upgrade will include:
removing roadside hazards and vegetation to improve safety
installing new turning lanes at key intersections, including left and right turn lanes at Ball Street and dedicated right turn lanes at O’Quinn and Devine streets to improve traffic flow
removing right turn access at Phyllis Street to reduce traffic conflicts
widening the road with a wide centre line to reduce the risk of head-on crashes.
Construction is expected to commence in mid-December 2025 and be completed in September 2026, weather and construction conditions permitting.
Construction will take place between 6am and 6pm, Monday to Friday, with occasional weekend work.
A reduced speed limit of 40km/h will be in place, and traffic controllers will guide vehicles safely through the work zone.
Reduced speed limits will be removed during the Christmas and New Year period to minimise traffic delays.
Minister for Transport and Main Roads, Brent Mickelberg, said the upgrades aim to enhance road safety and efficiency.
“These improvements will make a real difference for the thousands of motorists who rely on this corridor every day,” Minister Mickelberg said.
By reducing roadside hazards and improving turning lanes, we’re helping prevent crashes and support smoother, safer journeys.
“We understand roadworks can be inconvenient, but these upgrades are essential for improving safety and transport efficiency.
“We’ll be working closely with residents and businesses to manage impacts and keep the community informed.”
