The damage caused during Easter’s wet weather event required the closure of Grangewood Avenue, with traffic being detoured via Hilltops Parkway and Tallwoods Drive.

The flooding event, which saw over 300mm of rain falling over a three-day period in March, caused significant damage across the Mid Coast region and is currently under consideration for being declared a natural disaster.

“If a declaration is made, it means repairs and replacement works would be eligible for natural disaster funding, a process we are currently investigating for the replacement structure required to re-open Grangewood Avenue,” MidCoast Council’s manager, operations north, Daniel Park explained.

“The process is underway, but given the scale of the project, we’re not able to confirm when the works to install a replacement will be scheduled.”

To provide interim relief for residents making the 3km detour, MidCoast Council road crews will install temporary access at the site of the damage, allowing traffic through in both directions using a single lane.

“Motorists using the temporary access will be required to give way to traffic already in the single-lane section”, Daniel added.

“And locals should bear in mind that, as an interim solution any future rainfall events may mean Grangewood Avenue could be closed again.”

Works to provide interim access will be undertaken later this week.

Meanwhile, council’s engineering team is undertaking a hydraulic analysis and road design works, both of which are required should a natural disaster funding application proceed.

“Traffic safety is our primary concern, and while the final works to install a replacement structure may take more time than we’d like, it’s crucial that the end result provides a safe and sustainable outcome.” 

It is anticipated that once works commence to install the permanent structure, the temporary access will be removed.

More information about the project will be made available once a construction schedule is confirmed.

To stay updated about roadworks across the region, or to find out what’s happening near you, visit www.midcoast.nsw.gov.au/roads.