The Waterfall Way is an important route connecting the seaboard and Coffs Harbour district with the coastal hinterland of the Bellingen area, the tablelands of Dorrigo, Armidale and beyond.
The Roads and Traffic Authority (RTA) proposes to realign and widen two sections of Waterfall Way east of Bellingen at Marx Hill and Cameron’s Corner. The NSW Government has committed a total of $8.8million for construction of these two projects which will deliver major safety improvements.
Marx Hill is situated 8.3km west of the Pacific Highway and the Waterfall Way winds its way between the base of Marx Hill and the banks of Bellinger River. The $5.3 million work on a 1km section at Marx Hill will improve safety by easing the sub standard curves.
Cameron’s Corner is located 2km west of the Pacific Highway. The $3.5 million work on a 500m section would improve safety by improving the curve and road alignment.
Both projects were originally considered in 2004. At that time discussions were held with Bellingen Shire Council, property owners and key government agencies. In 2004 a draft review of environmental factors was prepared for each project and some property acquisition undertaken.
The NSW Government is committed to providing a road network that will promote economic development while reaching a balance with the natural and social environment.
Current position
Marx Hill
Work on this project commenced in May 2009. Work will be carried out from Monday to Friday, 7am to 5pm and Saturdays 7am to 5pm.
Traffic will be restricted to a single lane with alternate traffic flow during the works, with minor delays expected. Motorists should allow extra time when travelling through the Marx Hill area.
It will also be necessary to restrict traffic flow at various times with temporary lane closures and speed zone changes.
While the work is underway, access to properties will be affected at times. Alternate access arrangements will be implemented where possible and the RTA will discuss any changes with local residents.
For more information please contact the RTA on 13 17 82.
Cameron's Corner
An environmental assessment for Cameron's Corner was placed on display for community comment in early 2009.
Comments from the community were considered as part of the assessment. The submissions received as part of the environmental process have now been compiled into a submissions report which is available for your information.
The RTA has deferred further work on this proposal pending the provision of funding in a future budget. Having regard to the submissions received the RTA would, before proceeding with the proposal:
Investigate whether there are viable alternative options.
Undertake further assessment of the significance of selected species, if present.
Undertake a heritage assessment to clarify the cultural, social and visual significance of the study area
Undertake a flood assessment to confirm the required flood immunity.
The RTA will continue to keep the community informed of the progress of the projects to ensure all issues are considered in finalising the project.
Further information
For further information please contact the project manager, Paul Leonard on:
Phone: (02) 6640 1300 (during business hours)
Email: grafton_regional_office@rta.nsw.gov.au
Or write to: RTA, Box 576, Grafton, NSW 2460
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