PMHCouncil is the lead partner in this joint project with Kempsey to seal Maria River Road, and their Project Manager has given this update on its progress.

The road design is complete now, with 7.2m of seal and 0.5m gravel shoulders. Unfortunately, it won’t be straightening out the s-bend at the beginning of the existing seal going north.

Acquisition of a parcel of necessary land from National Parks passed through the NSW Parliament last week, and other regulatory and environmental approvals are proceeding slowly, which is apparently normal for this type of sensitive project.

As early preparation for the construction phase, some of the culverts and drainage along the road may be worked on later this year or early next year.

Actual construction should now commence in the second half of 2023 (not this year, as last advised!), and take about 6 months to complete. Weather permitting!!

He didn’t say anything about holding your breath.