Drivers trekking through the steep and rocky terrain of the Turon Valley will now enjoy a smoother and safer journey, with construction complete on a river crossing near Pumpkin Point, in the Palmers Oaky area.
The old timber bridge over the Turon River on the Upper Turon Road needed replacing after having become damaged beyond repair.
Thanks to a $65,000 grant from the former Coalition Government through the Local Roads and Community Infrastructure Program, Lithgow City Council has installed a bridge made of concrete and steel.
Federal Member for Calare, Andrew Gee, said the new crossing will boost road connectivity across the Seven Valleys.
“The old timber bridge on the Upper Turon Road had seen better days, battered by the relentless rainfall and damaged by multiple flooding events,” said Mr Gee.
“Damage to the bridge caused by severe wet weather made improving this section of the Upper Turon Road a top priority.
“To bring the bridge up to modern standards, better meet the needs of the local community, and improve road safety and connectivity for drivers travelling through the Turon Valley, a complete replacement of the crossing was needed.
“It’s great that the former Coalition Government supported the bridge upgrade with a $65,000 grant, transforming the timber crossing into a bridge of steel and concrete.
“Crossing the Turon River near Pumpkin Point is now a much smoother drive in what can be a curly corner of the Central West.
“The area around Turon Gates is increasingly popular with campers and tourists who will very much appreciate this bridge,” Mr Gee said.
Mayor of Lithgow City Council, Cr. Maree Statham, said replacing the bridge on the Upper Turon Road was a vital upgrade to keep drivers safe.
“This project is another example of how Lithgow Council works effectively with other levels of government to deliver the infrastructure that really benefits the local community.
“The Palmers Oakey Road bridge provides safe and secure access for remote communities and businesses,” said Mayor Statham.
The Local Roads and Community Infrastructure Program supports local councils to deliver priority local road and community infrastructure project, supporting jobs and the resilience of local economies to help communities bounce back from the COVID-19 pandemic.
More information on the Local Roads and Community Infrastructure Program is available at investment.infrastructure.gov.au/infrastructure_investment/local-roads-community-infrastructureprogram.
