The first stage of the Northern Gateway Transport Hub has kicked off this month, with construction of a roundabout at the intersection of Princes Street and Emerton Close.
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The tender for its construction was awarded to Ditchfield Contracting in December's MidCoast Council meeting, and follows a $15million funding announcement in support of the Northern Gateway project by Member for Myall Lakes, Stephen Bromhead in March 2019.
Funding for the project has been split into two stages, the first being the construction of the new multilane concrete roundabout and a stub road to allow future access to the industrial area. Preliminary works to relocate services on the site were undertaken in December, with the contractor moving in last week to commence construction. Works will continue through to an anticipated completion date in August 2021, weather permitting.
Stage two will involve construction of the new road west of the roundabout to facilitate industrial development.
"This is an exciting step forward for the local area, not only in promoting future business growth opportunities but improving safety outcomes for local and heavy traffic accessing the Pacific Highway," Rob Scott, council's director, infrastructure and engineering services, said.
The team at council has worked closely with Transport for NSW (TfNSW) in preparation for construction of the roundabout, and has liaised with local landowners regarding the proposed rezoning of surrounding land for industrial purposes.
As well as constructing the four-leg roundabout, the project involves construction of around 35 metres of new, four lane flexible road pavement (the stub road), kerb and gutter and pavement reconstruction on the other three legs of the roundabout, piped stormwater drainage, open basins, electricity and street light relocations, and ancillary works such as barriers and fencing.
Access to the Pacific Highway from Princes Street will be maintained at all times.
The project has been funded in full through a State Government Regional Road Special Purpose Grant being administered by TfNSW, and is part of MidCoast Council's commitment to improving infrastructure across the region.
