BY DI SNEDDON
Its good news for those who enjoy a romp in the snow with the announcement of $5.6million to improve road access to the Barrington Tops.
This week’s blistering cold weather saw snow in abundance at the popular tourist destination and many locals headed to the hills to witness the event.
However, driving the access roads is dangerous and as a result, roads were closed and police issued a warning that only 4WD vehicles should attempt the trip. This
funding is a step towards making access open to all.
Moonan Brook Road, in the east of Upper Hunter Shire Council, will have an initial seal in what is the first stage to improve access.
The $5.6 million project is funded with $4.9 million from the jointly funded Federal and NSW governments Fixing Local Roads program, $500,000 from the Federal Government Roads to Recovery program and $200,000 from Council funds.
Upper Hunter Shire Mayor Maurice Collison said the project will create jobs and in the long run, bring additional tourism and he thanked the Federal and State Governments for the funding.
“This road is important to locals and tourists,” Cr Collison said.
“This work is a stepping stone to improving access to the magnificent Barrington Tops.”
The project starts at the intersection of Hunter Road and Moonan Brook Road, and will upgrade Moonan Brook Road for approximately 5.4km, past the turn off to Barrington and on to the Moonan Brook Camping Ground.
The work will include:
– Pavement widening and strengthening
– Initial seal of the 5.4km segment of road
– Installation of additional drainage structures
– Clearing vegetation and widen cuttings to improve sight distance.
– Installation of guard rail.
The news comes on top of considerable investment in the Upper Hunter which includes new mobile coverage for Moonan Flat which was switched on earlier this month, funding for drought relief projects, grants for men’s sheds at Merriwa and Scone as well as additional funding for upgrades to the Scone airport infrastructure.
Member for the Upper Hunter Michael Johnsen said that Fixing Local Roads was delivering projects that made a big difference to people’s everyday lives right across the state.
“This project continues our investment in delivery of better roads right across the Upper Hunter and we’re excited to see shovels in the ground as soon as possible,” Mr Johnsen said.
“I am proud to be part of a government that has delivered this significant funding for our Shire.”
