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The smiles said it all – access from Bilambil Heights to Tweed Heads via Scenic Drive was restored today, much to the delight of local residents.
From 9 am today, residents were once again able to travel along the full length of Scenic Drive – the first time since the devastating flood of February-March caused 2 major landslips, forcing the roadway to be closed and traffic diverted via Terranora Road.
The opening of one lane of traffic allows Bilambil Heights residents to again connect with Kennedy Drive, providing quicker access to Tweed Heads and surrounds, just in time for the Labour Day long weekend.
Motorists queuing ahead of the road opening this morning expressed relief and were eager to use the road once again.
"Having this road back open now is great for our family - we've been spending a lot of time in the car driving from Bilambil to Tweed Heads," said Matt (pictured).
Another Bilambil resident, Natasha, also welcomed the shorter commute.
"It's a relief for locals – it will save us time, money and our cars," she said.
"The timing before the school holidays is great because we can get to the beach much quicker."
The road had been closed to through traffic since the end of February when the record downpour caused 2 landslips on Scenic Drive.
After geotechnical assessment and a tender process, Council appointed contractor Australian Marine and Civil Pty Ltd (AMC) to undertake the repair of the road. After completing initial stabilisation works, AMC gave the green light for one lane of the drive to operate past both slip sites, under traffic control.
Traffic controllers will remain on site during the working week to monitor traffic flows and meet the needs of peak demand.
Council's Director of Engineering David Oxenham said providing safe access for motorists using Scenic Drive had been a high priority.
"Scenic Drive suffered significant damage during the flood and we were forced to shut the road to ensure the safety of motorists until testing and stabilisation of the road could be completed," Mr Oxenham said.
"We know how inconvenient this has been for residents and are sure today's opening of one lane of Scenic Drive will be welcome news for residents and marks another step forward in our flood recovery works.
"There is still a lot of work to be carried out before we are able to open both lanes and this may cause delays while contractors bring in materials, so we encourage motorists to be patient and allow for extra travel time."
Over the weekend, when traffic volumes are expected to be lower, traffic lights will be in operation at both slip sites on Scenic Drive.
The single lane is open to all vehicles with no load limits in place.
Residents are advised that with one lane in use, queuing can be expected in both directions.
Due to the opening of one lane to traffic, pedestrian access has been removed in the interest of public safety.
