Last week, several representatives of Emirates met with the Mayor Maree Statham, Deputy Mayor Darryl Goodwin and Lithgow City Council Administration representatives and community representatives to discuss the status of the Wolgan Road reconstruction project. Flying in from Dubai, Sir Tim Clark, President of Emirates, met with Council to hear exactly why the road had been closed and what plans Council had for future access into the Wolgan Valley.
On the works President of Emirates, Sir Tim Clark stated "Emirates is committed to re-opening its Wolgan Valley Resort as soon as possible and congratulates the council on constructing the temporary road so quickly. The company will also support the council in its application to the Government for funds to construct a brand-new road into the valley "
Lithgow City Council's Mayor, Councillor Maree Statham. "It was fantastic to have the opportunity to speak directly with Sir Tim Clark, alongside his team, regarding the Wolgan Road project. This is an incredibly complex project that requires deep geotechnical investigation and a comprehensive design process that leaves no option unconsidered."
"Lithgow Council, its Councillors and staff, remain absolutely committed to the residents and businesses of the Wolgan Valley," said Mayor Statham, with conviction. Council is working alongside the government to secure the necessary funding envelope of over $150 million to complete the work. At the conclusion of the meeting, Sir Tim Clark acknowledged the effort made by Council to date, indicating he felt reassured the project was in good hands.
Restoration of permanent, resilient access into the Wolgan Valley is one of the most complex disaster recovery efforts in Australia. Nonetheless, Lithgow City Council remains committed to the delivery of all disaster recovery works through the region.