Tree clearing works on Waitui Road are mostly complete along the 2.5 kilometre stretch of road between the Hannam Vale and Waitui villages.
“The work crews want to thank the community for their patience over the last couple of months while the tree clearing was occurring, especially given the long delays that were required to safely remove the large trees” said MidCoast Council’s Manager of Operations North, Daniel Park.
A few trees remain that contain nesting birds, these will be removed after the nesting birds have moved on and once the Contractor is available to return to site. Short term road closures will once again be required to safely remove these remaining trees.
The recent wet weather has impacted the roadworks causing delays to the commencement of the drainage and earthworks as well as fencing adjustments and Telstra relocations.
Council work crews will return to site in February after the school holidays to minimise the impact on tourists to the area. Further work on fencing and Telstra relocations will continue with minimal impact on road users.
Funding for the project was first announced two years ago by member for Port Macquarie, Leslie Williams, and work scheduled for the current financial year.
“We know the Hannam Vale and Waitui communities have been eagerly awaiting this important work and we ask the local community to be patient while the roadworks are occurring,” said Mr Park.
“We anticipate the project will be finished mid-next year, weather permitting, and we’ll have message boards in place to update road users as we progress.”
Council will work with property owners on the stretch of road to ensure access is maintained.
Motorists are asked to remain vigilant when travelling through the area, to stay alert to changed traffic conditions and signage, and observe reduced speed limits and directions from road crews.
Stay updated on the progress of this project by visiting the Live Traffic website www.livetraffic.com.
