<p>The Western Australian Government has released an action plan to cope with the predicted increase in heavy freight access to the Port of Albany.</p> <p>Export freight movement through Albany is forecast to grow from 2.5m tonnes to 5.5m tonnes by 2010.</p> <p>"Much of that growth can be attributed to the grains and bluegum plantation woodchip industries, and it is likely that up to 70% of this freight will be transported to port by road," the WA planning and infrastructure minister, Alannah MacTiernan, said.</p> <p>This gave rise to concerns that the growth in truck movements will have a significant negative impact in terms of noise, pollution and safety, she said.</p> <p>A working group has set down an action plan to maximise rail use and develop a more suitable road network. </p> <br />
