The project to repair the road to a more resilient standard was jointly funded through Disaster Recovery Funding Arrangements; and is the first Regional Roads and Transport Recovery Package (RRTRP) project started and completed.
In March 2021 a landslip brought on by heavy rain forced the closure of Naughtons Gap Road. Damage to the road was compounded by the severe weather events to hit the North Coast in February and March 2022.
The road remained closed until 6 December 2024 when Richmond Valley Council completed a major restoration and resilience project.
The Council used material recovered from the landslip on other projects, saving the council and the project $2.4 million in disposal fees.
The betterment project included the construction of catch fencing to contain future falling debris, the implementation of a soldier pile wall, as well as ground anchors, extensive earthworks, drainage and pavement reconstruction, with a focus on ensuring stability amidst ongoing landslip movements.
Quotes attributable to Federal Minister for Emergency Management, Jenny McAllister:
“The 2022 floods had an enduring impact on the Northern Rivers.
“We’re rebuilding roads to a more resilient standard for families to stay connected and safe.
“We’re working with the NSW Government to help communities recover from and prepare for future natural disasters.”
NSW Minister for Planning and Public Spaces, Paul Scully:
“The NSW government is committed to making sure we do all we can to fortify the road and mitigate against future natural disasters and keep communities safe.
“This road is critical to the livelihoods of the residents who can now return to normalcy and feel assured about access in the future.”
Quotes attributable to NSW Minister for Regional Transport & Roads, Jenny Aitchison:
“We know that for every dollar invested in risk mitigation or betterment projects, up to $10 is saved in recovery, so the Naughtons Gap Road resilience project was an investment well worth making.
“Naughtons Gap Road stretches from Bentley to Casino, connecting key residential, commercial and industrial areas.
“The road has been closed since the March 2021 rain event when it initially cracked, and then further damage occurred from the landslip during the 2022 flood events.
“However, not only has the road been restored to full service, but additional betterment funding has also helped to strengthen the rebuilt section from future flooding and landslip events.
“This project provides an excellent example of what can be done when all levels of government work together.”
Quotes attributable to NSW Parliamentary Secretary for Disaster Recovery, Janelle Saffin:
“Richmond Valley Council deserves commendation for recognising the value of the new disaster recovery program and acting quickly on it.
“They have achieved value for money and, most importantly, have improved access for the roughly 1000 motorists who were using this road each day before the March 2021 landslip.
“Other councils are following in their footsteps and are also showing their commitment to making life better for their residents.”
Quotes attributable to Richmond Valley Mayor, Robert Mustow:
“The opening marks an exciting milestone not only for Richmond Valley, but the whole Northern Rivers region, as the long-anticipated Naughtons Gap Road officially reopened to traffic.
“This essential infrastructure project, completed after two years of geotechnical investigations, planning, design and construction, was delivered at an efficient rate, despite recent heavy rain.
“We recognise this road closure has been an inconvenience to residents and businesses, and we thank them for their patience and understanding while this important work was undertaken.
“On behalf of our community I'd like to thank the Australian and NSW governments for the funding support which has enabled this project to be completed.”
