Early works underway for new roundabout at Alexandra St & Birkbeck Dr

Published on 24 February 2025

The next major road improvement project for Parkhurst has commenced with early works now underway for a new roundabout at the intersection of Alexandra Street and Birkbeck Drive.

Designed to enhance traffic flow and safety in the rapidly growing Parkhurst area, the $6.35 million project is funded through the State Government’s Works for Queensland program, supporting the Region’s northern growth corridor.

While early works currently involve underground connectivity and site preparation, the roundabout construction is expected to commence in May.

Rockhampton Regional Council Mayor Tony Williams said the new roundabout is designed to accommodate the needs of the local residents as new development continues in the high growth area. 

“Parkhurst is our fastest growing residential corridor with the potential to accommodate over 3,500 new homes into the future, so it is important that we invest in the infrastructure to support this growth,” Mayor Williams said.

“The new roundabout will help create a more efficient and safer traffic network, as well as serve as the southern connection point for the planned Alexandra Street Extended corridor.

“This builds on the investment being delivered to upgrade McLaughlin, Wade and Johnson Streets and part of our Better, Safer Roads Initiative to upgrade and improve local roads across our region.”

Member for Rockhampton Donna Kirkland said the State Government was committed to supporting vital infrastructure delivery for the people of Rockhampton.

“We want to see rural and regional communities across Queensland thrive, which is we have made Works for Queensland a permanent funding program,” Ms Kirkland said.

“Projects like this will not only help improve the liveability of local communities, but also support tens of thousands of jobs in rural and regional council areas.”

Infrastructure Councillor Marika Taylor outlined the preparatory work currently underway.

“We’ve undertaken the civil works component for the relocation of electrical infrastructure, which involved a lot of underground work. We have now commenced the site preparation for the roundabout footprint,” Cr Taylor said.

“Ergon Energy will also commence the relocation of the electrical infrastructure shortly, which is scheduled for completion by the end of April, before road construction begins.

“Once constructed, the single-lane roundabout will be large enough to safely accommodate b-double vehicles.”

The Alexandra Street and Birkbeck Roundabout project is expected to be completed by November 2026, creating local jobs and contributing to the Region’s economy throughout its construction.