GEORGE Gardiner, an 82-year-old resident of Shephards Lane, Coffs Harbour finally had the opportunity to fulfil a two-year-long desire to witness the Coffs Harbour Bypass from a bird’s-eye perspective, thanks to a helicopter tour with Precision Helicopters.

George expressed his delight after experiencing the breathtaking aerial view.

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“It has been a wonderful day, seeing it from a different perspective and capturing aerial photos of the upcoming tunnels is something I’ve wanted to do for two years.

“I reside in Shephards Lane, which will be encompassed by the new route,” he shared.

The helicopter tour commenced from the northern end of the bypass in Korora and concluded near Englands Road in the south with News Of the Area reporter David Wigley photographing the landscape.

As George observed the ongoing construction activities, including vegetation removal and the implementation of sediment and erosion controls, he couldn’t help but be impressed by the scale of the project.

“Absolutely pleased,” George said, highlighting his interaction with helicopter pilot Mitch Eldridge.

“He was genuinely interested and well-versed in the main areas of development.

“I witnessed around ten bulldozers and substantial earthmoving equipment in action.

“The logistics and planning conducted over the past five years are truly remarkable.

“While the route will gradually become more visible over the next two years, I anticipate the entire project will take around four years to complete.”

The Coffs Harbour bypass, a fourteen-kilometre project, is jointly funded by the Australian and New South Wales governments.

Its primary objectives are to enhance connectivity, road transport efficiency, and safety for both local and interstate motorists.

Having resided in Coffs Harbour for more than five decades, George firmly believes the Bypass is an essential solution to alleviate the traffic bottleneck.

“During my 53 years here, I have witnessed substantial changes in Coffs Harbour, particularly the heavy traffic on the highway, mainly consisting of large semis.

“Therefore, it is crucial for us to have this diversion and remove the through-traffic that continually disrupts daily life in Coffs Harbour.

“While some travellers may stop for fuel, food, and accommodation, most will likely continue their journey from Sydney to Brisbane or even Cairns to Melbourne.”

When asked about his opinion on the bypass, George said he wholeheartedly supports the initiative.

“Yes, absolutely, although there is still work to be done in terms of integrating the main roads.

“I believe it will eventually improve within the next five years.

“This will be welcomed by many residents, leading to better parking availability, however, I sincerely hope that we never have to resort to paid parking areas.

“With the new hospital being established, more people are choosing to live in this area, with the beachside region between Coffs and Woolgoolga experiencing growth.

“As a long-term resident, I believe the future of Coffs Harbour looks promising.

“The bypass is a necessary step forward, and I commend those who meticulously planned and executed the logistics,” concluded George.

By David WIGLEY