Edward River Council will commence works to improve Pretty Pine Road from April to ensure greater safety and accessibility for road users.
Pretty Pine Road, a key thoroughfare in the Edward River Local Government Area, serves as a crucial link connecting the HW21 'Cobb Highway' to the township of Moulamein.
Sections of Pretty Pine Road, particularly between Blue Gate Station and Woorooma Station, are narrow with only a 6 metre seal, restricting the movement of Higher Mass Limit (HML) vehicles.
The road in this section has been further compromised due to recent flooding, exacerbating the road's deterioration.
Recognising the importance of this route for businesses, emergency services, residents, and the local road network, Edward River Council (ERC) is taking proactive steps to address current challenges and enhance road safety and access for all users.
ERC has awarded the Pretty Pine Road improvement project to Bild Infrastructure who are currently in the planning and preparation phase, and slated to commence work on-site in April, marking a crucial step toward the road's revitalisation.
The awarded works will consist of:
- Road Widening: sections of the road will be widened from the current 6.1m seal to an 11m formation with an 8m seal. This work will be funded by Edward River Council and 'Fixing Country Roads' NSW Government Program.
- Flood Damage Reconstruction: extensive pavement damages resulting from the recent flooding event will be repaired. This work will be funded by Disaster Recovery Funding Arrangements (DRFA) and Regional Emergency Repair Fund (RERF).
Mayor of Edward River Council, Cr Peta Betts stated that the announced works reflect the needs and wants of the Edward River community.
"We know that many trucks continued using the Pretty Pine Road during the flood period, compounding the road issues – and Council has listened and responded to the community's call for action for the road to be fixed," said Cr Betts.
Chief Executive Officer of Edward River Council, Phil Stone said the project will have wide ranging and ongoing positive impacts for the community, business and emergency services.
"These much-needed works will ensure sustained safety and accessibility for all users of the Pretty Pine Road, including HML vehicles," said Mr Stone.
