Shire’s road and footpath network under inspection

Kempsey Shire Council is currently undertaking a detailed video imaging and condition assessment of the shire’s 1250km road network and 73km of footpaths and shared access ways.

The inspection work is being undertaken by Council’s asset inspection contractor, Infrastructure Management Group, as part of an asset management initiative.

Council’s Director of Planning and Operations, Robert Fish, said the assessment started last Friday and is expected to take about four weeks to complete.

“The information gathered will enable Council to better manage this important community asset. It will enable us to carry out more effective maintenance, develop renewal strategies and improve connectivity and safety,” Mr Fish said.

“Residents may notice camera-equipped inspection vehicles travelling on local roads and quad bike style inspection vehicles on public footways over the coming weeks while the assessment is carried out.”

The road assessment vehicles are driven by experienced operators travelling at normal traffic speeds. They have hazard lighting and other warning devices in operation while completing laser measurement and video recording activities of the shire’s roads and access ways.

“These vehicles are clearly identifiable and will operate seamlessly within the normal surrounding traffic patterns. However, they may need to stop frequently on the road network to ensure thorough data is recorded,” said Mr Fish.

“Council asks that motorists travelling behind one of the vehicles keeps a full car length distance away to provide the cameras at the rear of the vehicle with a clear view of the road surface.”

Footpath assessment vehicles are operated by certified pavement inspectors travelling at a brisk walking pace. Hazard lighting and other warning devices will be in operation while completing assessment and video recording activities of footpaths, cycle ways and shared access ways. They are clearly identifiable and operators will be vigilant and yield where ever possible to the needs of pedestrians.

All of the cameras on the vehicles are focused on the road or footpath structure with some limited viewing of areas directly adjacent. No image recordings of commercial, residential, private properties or structures will be undertaken.

Council thanks the community for their cooperation and support while these works are carried out.