WA Freight Link homes may be spared

Dozens of homes in Perth's southern suburbs may not be bulldozed if a tunnel can be used in the $1.6 billion Freight Link project.

Transport minister Dean Nalder told ABC radio on Tuesday that he could not yet provide any assurances to Palmyra residents who face their land being resumed to make way for the road, which aims to take Fremantle Port-bound trucks off Leach Highway.

Mr Nalder said he expected the project proponents would provide alternative proposals.

"I'm still hopeful that an alternate (sic) route might be possible," Mr Nalder said.

"It's a bit early yet to say we're not going down that path.

"I don't want to promise it but I do want to put a bit of calm in the debate."

Mr Nalder said he understood the residents' concern.

"And I'm sympathetic to that but I also believe that this is a fantastic project."