Published Saturday, 12 March, 2011 at 11:00 AM
Main Roads, Fisheries and Marine Infrastructure
The Honourable Craig Wallace
Esk–Hampton Road Works
Esk–Hampton Road is closer to being fully restored with detailed design works to repair flood damage on schedule.
In the wake of one of Queensland’s worst natural disasters, major damage was caused to the road, forcing its closure.
Main Roads Minister Craig Wallace said the priority was getting the road fully operational as soon as possible.
“The bridge at Redbank Crossing number three was damaged beyond repair and is being replaced with a permanent concrete structure,” Mr Wallace said.
“We have already demolished the old timber structure and once design works are complete we will know the timeframe for the new bridge to be constructed.
“In the meantime, a sidetrack has been constructed beside the damaged timber bridge which has been open to traffic since 24 February.”
Mr Wallace said the road would continue to be closed 12km east of Hampton for at least a further four months due to significant damage.
“Our designers are working on plans to repair the extensive scouring as well as the reinstatement of the road embankments and culverts,” he said.
“Initial designs include the addition of extra culverts that will allow an increase in water flow through the area, resulting in less structure damage in the case of any future floods.
“Extra strengthening works are also planned on the road’s embankments downstream which will help to reduce any damage in future events.
“A detour around the site using local roads (Post Office Road and Blanck Road) is currently open for all traffic.”
The total cost of repairs to Esk–Hampton Road is still unknown and will not be finalised until the design process has been completed.
“While the department is giving high priority to the re-opening of all Queensland roads, the safety of road users is the utmost priority,” Mr Wallace said.
“We ask all road users to exercise caution and to follow the traffic controls in place while repair works are underway.”
Mr Wallace also thanked residents of the Esk and Hampton regions for their patience while works are being carried out on the road.
“We are aware that some significant detours have been required by motorists and the department appreciates the understanding and tolerance of the community during this time,” he said.
“All levels of government are working together with local communities and businesses to ensure this restoration effort runs as smoothly and efficiently as possible.”
For updates on road closures motorists should always check www.131940.qld.gov.au and stay tuned to your local radio station.
Media enquiries: Holly Shine 0418 864 474
In the wake of one of Queensland’s worst natural disasters, major damage was caused to the road, forcing its closure.
Main Roads Minister Craig Wallace said the priority was getting the road fully operational as soon as possible.
“The bridge at Redbank Crossing number three was damaged beyond repair and is being replaced with a permanent concrete structure,” Mr Wallace said.
“We have already demolished the old timber structure and once design works are complete we will know the timeframe for the new bridge to be constructed.
“In the meantime, a sidetrack has been constructed beside the damaged timber bridge which has been open to traffic since 24 February.”
Mr Wallace said the road would continue to be closed 12km east of Hampton for at least a further four months due to significant damage.
“Our designers are working on plans to repair the extensive scouring as well as the reinstatement of the road embankments and culverts,” he said.
“Initial designs include the addition of extra culverts that will allow an increase in water flow through the area, resulting in less structure damage in the case of any future floods.
“Extra strengthening works are also planned on the road’s embankments downstream which will help to reduce any damage in future events.
“A detour around the site using local roads (Post Office Road and Blanck Road) is currently open for all traffic.”
The total cost of repairs to Esk–Hampton Road is still unknown and will not be finalised until the design process has been completed.
“While the department is giving high priority to the re-opening of all Queensland roads, the safety of road users is the utmost priority,” Mr Wallace said.
“We ask all road users to exercise caution and to follow the traffic controls in place while repair works are underway.”
Mr Wallace also thanked residents of the Esk and Hampton regions for their patience while works are being carried out on the road.
“We are aware that some significant detours have been required by motorists and the department appreciates the understanding and tolerance of the community during this time,” he said.
“All levels of government are working together with local communities and businesses to ensure this restoration effort runs as smoothly and efficiently as possible.”
For updates on road closures motorists should always check www.131940.qld.gov.au and stay tuned to your local radio station.
Media enquiries: Holly Shine 0418 864 474