Bellingen Shire Mayor Steve Allan said the rehabilitation of Darkwood Road marks a significant milestone in enhancing road infrastructure across the Shire.

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“The impact of recent disasters has made it clear how critical our road network is for the community.

“With this funding from the Australian and NSW Governments, we are addressing key priorities to ensure our roads are safer, more reliable, and resilient,” Mayor Allan said.

The Darkwood Road rehabilitation project includes:

• Replacement of stormwater culverts to improve drainage.

• Rehabilitation and betterment of bitumen-sealed pavements.

• Installation of concrete kerbs and channels to enhance drainage.

• Realignment of priority sections of the road.

• Sealing of priority unsealed sections of the pavement.

Specific upgrade locations include:

• Alignment and drainage improvements upstream of Richardsons Bridge (1.25 km).

• Thora Intersection to Thora Sawmill (1 km).

• Past Leans Creek Bridge (0.3 km).

• Past Mickeys Creek Bridge (0.2 km).

• Orama Public School (0.1 km).

Works commenced in February 2025 and are expected to take approximately six months to complete.

Mayor Allan highlighted the broader benefits of the project for the Shire’s residents and businesses.

“These works will benefit not just local residents, but also our producers, schools, emergency services, and bus operators by providing a safer and more reliable road network.

“The improved drainage, alignment, and safety barriers will make a tangible difference during future adverse weather events,” he said.

While construction is taking place, Council will ensure measures in place to minimise community disruption on the road.

Traffic management systems will be in place to handle delays, with special consideration given to peak traffic flows and school bus movements.