MOTORISTS and business owners will endure some short-term pain when major roadworks commence in West Tamworth on Saturday.
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But Tamworth Regional Council (TRC) is confident the long-term gain from reducing congestion at one of the city’s busiest intersections will be worth it.
On Saturday, Dampier St will close for about three months while council carries out a $7 million upgrade of Gunnedah Rd.
The centrepiece of the state government-funded project will be a roundabout 40m in diameter to provide a smoother passage for vehicles.
TRC’s manager of civil construction, Graeme McKenzie, warned motorists that some delays were likely and they should factor that into their travel times.
“A 40km/h speed zone will be in force along Gunnedah Rd adjacent to the work site and drivers are reminded to obey detours or traffic signs in place,” he said.
The opening of Cole Rd to through traffic from Gunnedah Rd will assist with the changed traffic conditions, while a new right-hand lane for use of west-bound vehicles turning into Cook St will open this week.
Council’s director of regional services, Peter Resch, said the intersection had long ago been identified as one of the city’s main “hotspots” for congestion.
“Dampier St is a major arterial (road) through the Taminda industrial area,” he said.
“There’s a lot of truck movements, there’s a school in close proximity, as well as businesses and a hotel, so it’s a much safer outcome to have a roundabout there.”
Business owners and residents who would like to receive regular updates about the project’s progress can join a mailing list by emailing oxleyhighwayupgrade@tamworth.nsw.gov.au