Shire To Push Ahead With Road Repair Program

SHIRE TO PUSH AHEAD WITH ROAD REPAIR PROGRAM

Council is set to fast-track an extensive road repair program as a result of damage caused by floods in February and March.

Two maintenance crews will commence works on local roads across the Shire from today, with the remaining two crews focussed on our contractual obligations with the Department of Transport and Main Roads and Council’s capital works program.

Council received confirmation this week that QRA funding had been approved for roadworks on Cubbie Road, and procurement arrangements will commence.

Submissions currently with the QRA for assessment include Whynebah Road, Gunnindaddy Road, Middle Road, Teelba Road, Thomby Road, Chelmer Road, Powrunna and Unity Roads.

Mayor Samantha O’Toole said Council understood the poor condition of many rural roads in the Shire and will begin work on flood damage while it finalises the funding agreement with the Queensland Reconstruction Authority [QRA].

Cr O’Toole said the community could not be expected to wait any longer for the work to begin.

“The Shire acknowledges that the state of some roads has caused real and genuine concerns for residents and we recognise that and thank residents for their patience,” Cr O’Toole said.

Cr O’Toole said the planned work would see a significant amount of money flow into the Balonne community which would offer direct and indirect economic benefits to a broad range of local businesses.

“Under the Disaster Recovery Funding Arrangements (DRFA), Council has lodged with the QRA in excess of $20 million in restoration works.
“These works will offer a welcome boost to the local economy, supporting local businesses and assist in the recovery from the Coronavirus pandemic.”

ENDS

For more information;
Nigel Tapp, Corporate Communications Co-ordinator-Balonne Shire Council
T: 07 4620 8804 M: 0476 660 047 E: nigel.tapp@balonne.qld.gov.au