Red Centre Way – Outer Mereenie Loop

The Northern Territory (NT) Government is sealing 140 km of the Outer Merenie Loop, improving access along the iconic Red Centre Way.

The works form part of the NT Strategic Roads Package, jointly funded by the Australian and NT governments.

The project will progressively seal the road from the intersection of Larapinta Drive and Namatjira Drive through to the existing seal at Kings Creek Station.

This will create a continuous sealed road through:

• Aboriginal communities
• Alice Springs
• the West MacDonnell Ranges
• Yulara
• Uluru Kata Tjuta National Park
• Watarrka National Park.

Currently subject to seasonal corrugations and restricted to 4-wheel drive vehicles. The upgrades will provide:

• improved safety and driving conditions
• more reliable all-weather access
• improved connections to services for remote and Aboriginal communities
• reduced travel time and support for tourism, freight and service delivery.

Current status

The design for the first construction package is completed and tender documents are being prepared.

Construction is expected to start in late 2026, subject to approvals and clearances. This first stage will upgrade and seal 25 km of the loop.

The project will be delivered in stages to allow consultation and approvals for each section of work.

Contact

Road users will be advised of traffic changes during construction through Road Report NT website.

For more information, contact Department of Logistics and Infrastructure Project Manager by email victor.jay@nt.gov.au.

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