Work to deliver safer and more efficient journeys along Mount Lindesay Road is powering ahead, with the next two sections of the upgrade now underway at Legume East and Koreelah Creek with the final section at Big Hill in planning. 

Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Infrastructure, Transport and Regional Development Michael McCormack said work had already been completed on two of the five sections of this $24 million upgrade.

“Right across the country, the Australian Government is investing in roads – especially in the regions – to ensure Australians can get home sooner and safer,” the Deputy Prime Minister said.

“This project will significantly improve safety for local communities, truck drivers and tourists who use this road as the connector from the Southern Darling Downs to the Northern Rivers.

“This is yet another example of how we are continuing to deliver vital projects across Australia under our record $110 billion infrastructure pipeline which supports jobs and the economy, at a time when it is needed most.”

New South Wales Minister for Regional Transport and Roads Paul Toole said the progress made to date was a great example of all three levels of government working together to deliver for local communities.

“This is just one of many projects across the state designed to improve the safety and efficiency of the road network – and where investment is helping support jobs in the bush,” Mr Toole said.

“We are working to ensure all road users are able to complete their journeys safely and return to their families at the end of the day.”

Federal Member for New England Barnaby Joyce said Tenterfield Shire Council had begun early works to rebuild the 6.1 kilometre section of road at Legume East and a 3.5 kilometre section at Koreelah Creek.

“This is helping sustain 18 full-time jobs in the Council, as well as providing work for 12 suppliers and contractors, which is vital for local economies in these challenging times,” Mr Joyce said. 

“The existing road is narrow with poor pavement condition and everyone agrees it is in need of an upgrade, so it is great to be getting on with the job.”

New South Wales Member of the Legislative Council Ben Franklin said local communities were already reaping the rewards of the upgrade, so moving on to the next two sections was another huge win. 

“Minor earthworks and vegetation clearing are being carried out ahead of major work that’s due to start in the coming months, including safety improvements, realignment work, road widening and rebuilding,” Mr Franklin said.

“However, the start of major work will depend on the project team securing a guaranteed water source. This will leave only 2.3 kilometres of the upgrade to be completed.” 

Tenterfield Shire Council Mayor Peter Petty said all the members of the Legume to Woodenbong Road Alliance were very excited this final section was also being progressed quickly.

“The completion of the upgrade will remove possibly the worst remaining section of Mount Lindesay Road, contributing to the safety and wellbeing of road users and encouraging additional use by tourists and travellers,” Cr Petty said.  

Transport for NSW is also investigating options to extend the operational life of the Koorelah Creek Bridge, considering the likely impact of the proposed remediation works on its heritage significance.

The $24 million Mount Lindesay Road Upgrade was jointly funded, with the Australian and the New South Wales governments committing $12 million each.

More information is available here.

(ENDS)