As stage two of the North Coast Road, Point Turton, upgrade nears completion, Yorke Peninsula Council has submitted a grant application for the third and final stage.

Stage 2 of the project has included 1.82 kilometres of drainage works, pavement strengthening and a primer seal.

A follow-up final seal over the primer seal, along with line marking, will occur later in the year.

Director of Assets and Infrastructure Andre Kompler said Stage 2 has included more value engineering and collaborative design review involving both Council’s engineering staff and a design consultant.

This collaboration has led to more cost-effective construction solutions while still achieving project life intent, Mr Kompler said.

“In the design area alone, Council and Tonkin Consulting were able to reduce project costs by 18% or $400,000,” he said.

“This was achieved through the use of vertical alignment and cross-section refinement, the use of one-way cross-fall which saved on kerb needs, and the use of fit-for-purpose High-Density Polyethylene (HDPE) in lieu of concrete culverts.

“Additionally, helpful for Stage 2 delivery was a very competitive contractor market, which saw an additional $400,000 saved relative to the original project budget without any compromise to quality or project delivery.”

Mr Kompler said he is hopeful the last 7km stage of the upgrade will start in December, subject to grant funding.

“While Stage 3 will not be sealed, the pavement will be more resistant to wear and tear and be a marked improvement,” Mr Kompler said.

Mayor Darren Braund said the upgraded road has made it safer for all who navigate the route.

“The road surface and safety improvements will enhance the tourism journey,” Mr Braund said.

“Yorke Peninsula is a magnet for intra-regional and interstate visitation, so positive visitor experiences are really important.”