BY OLIVER RAJARATNAM
Coulsons Creek Road, in the upper Hunter, is undergoing repairs. The work is occurring between Werriwa and Willow Tree Road.
Previously, the road was complete in 2019, however, due to heavy rainfall and subsequent land slips it was closed in 2021.
Transport for NSW, Infrastructure NSW and Public Works Advisory have worked closely with the Upper Hunter Shire Council on a new design for the road ensuring the same damage will not occur again.
The new design entails protection against rock falls, new safety barriers, improved drainage, signage and land marking.
The repairs are being funded by the Australian Government who has committed $38.6 million and the NSW Government who has contributed $9.66 million.
NSW Regional Transport and Roads Minister Jenny Aitchison says "having three NSW Government agencies working with the Upper Hunter Shire Council with multimillion-dollar contributions from the Australian and NSW governments demonstrates how all levels of government recognize the importance of this road."
Repairs will restore an integral link between the New England and Golden highways, as a result benefitting tourism and supply chains. Federal Infrastructure, Transport, Regional Development and Local Government Minister Catherine King says "We know how important this road is for agriculture and livestock, providing essential access for farmers and livestock producers. It will also reduce travel times for all road users while improving safety by reducing traffic volumes on those roads that were being used as detours while Coulsons Creek Road was out of service."
The contract to carry out repairs has been awarded to Daracon Group who expect the work to be completed midway through 2025, depending on weather.
