Trucks could be denied access to sections of Gwydir Highway for up to eight weeks due to weather-damaged roads
February 1, 2013
Trucks could be denied access to sections of the Gwydir Highway in New South Wales for up to eight weeks due to damage caused to the state’s road network from extreme weather conditions.
Roads Minister Duncan Gay says bushfires and floods have exacted a heavy toll on the road network and work is underway to repair and reopen roads.
The highway remains closed about 70km west of Grafton at Jackadgery, at the Gibraltar Ranges, Glen Innes and between just west of Moree and Pallamallawa.
“The most extensive damage appears to be on the Gwydir Highway between Grafton and Glen Innes with numerous landslides and fallen trees,” Gay says.
Gay says crews from the Roads and Maritime Services (RMS) have been clearing debris on the highway to determine the extent of the damage caused to the road network.
He says the RMS expects to open one lane to light vehicles only over the next three to four days, but warns that it could be a further six to eight weeks of repair work before the highway reopens to heavy vehicles.
Gay says the Pacific Highway has also been closed at various locations between Grafton and Iluka, north of Maclean. He says closures are expected to remain in place for several days, with local access only.
“Motorists are encouraged to obey all road signs, including reduced speeds and any changed traffic conditions and should take extra care when driving. It is extremely important motorists drive to the conditions,” he says.
