Looking over plans for the $5.2 million new roundabout and road works at Inverell, Northern Tablelands MP Adam Marshall, left, Councillor Di Baker, Mayor Paul Harmon and Council’s Civil Engineering Manager Justin Pay.
Monday, 21 March 2022
CONSTRUCTION of a $5.2 million road safety improvement project at Inverell has officially commenced, with Northern Tablelands MP Adam Marshall joining Inverell Shire Mayor Paul Harmon to turn the first ceremonial sod of soil on a new roundabout, at the notorious intersection of the Gwydir Highway and Bundarra Road.
The State Government provided $2.2 million for the project, with council and the Federal Government both contributing $1.5 million.
Mr Marshall said upgrading Inverell Shire’s busiest intersection would improve the flow of freight and traffic onto the highway and through Inverell.
“A traffic study completed in 2008 identified a number of serious safety concerns with the intersection, in particular for long and heavy vehicles manoeuvring at the site,” Mr Marshall said.
“After exploring its options council decided a roundabout would be the most effective way to reduce congestion and cater for projected increases in traffic over the next 40 years.
“The roundabout has been designed specifically to service high productivity vehicle movements, including B-Triple combinations.
“This project is about allowing traffic from Bundarra Road and Chester Street to travel more smoothly onto the Gwydir Highway, reducing the risk of motor vehicle accidents and improving the flow of freight along this major transport route.”
Inverell Shire Mayor Paul Harmon said the intersection was the confluence of the busiest roads in the Shire, and the upgrade will benefit the transport industry, tourism and the general commuter.
“Council has worked hard to overcome a range of obstacles, and team with both the State and Federal Governments to deliver this strategic outcome,” Cr Harmon said.
“I’m pleased work on the project is underway, with an anticipated completion date of November 2022.
“Between now and then, traffic conditions will be varied depending on the stage of construction being undertaken.
“For the majority of the construction works, Chester Street will be closed at the Highway and access for residents will be from Mansfield Street, or other streets from the north-east.
“Detours will be in place for through traffic. The Highway and Bundarra Road will be under traffic control and traffic lights for the majority of the construction project.
“This is a major project for our shire, and is one which will provide a long term benefit to the community as well as facilitating economic gain.”