Main Street makeover

Work will soon begin on the final phases of a $2 million, major makeover of Maitland street, Narrabri.

When the work is completed, the CBD will boast a re-surfaced main street, sealed with smooth asphalt, improved roundabouts and garden beds and new seating near the Post Office.

The second phase of major works is scheduled to start in Narrabri’s CBD now that lighting, median strip, trees, pram and disabled access ramps and closed circuit television cameras have been installed.

Final components of the project were expected to begin last year, the Council reports, however procurement, and detailed engineering and design works have required additional planning considerations to be undertaken due to the variety of work, potential impact to shoppers, business owners, pedestrians, and vehicles.

“The first step will be to renew the existing pipeline down the western travel lane of Maitland Street” Council’s Director Infrastructure Delivery, Mr Darren Raeck said.

“The existing 200mm main was installed in 1970 and would present a significant risk under any new road infrastructure”.

Pipelaying work is scheduled to start in late February.

“Sections of stormwater will be replaced prior to preparing the road pavement,” Mr Raeck said.

The bitumen surface of Maitland street has long been showing signs of wear and tear, with rough spots and patched areas at various places.

That will all be changed when the street is resealed.

“The existing road pavement will be removed and replaced to support today’s traffic needs,” Mr Raeck said.

“Designers are currently looking at the most economical combination of stabilised soils, gravel and asphalt.

“Asphalt is the preferred road surface due to its durability and smooth finish.”

Mr Raeck said that roundabouts will be resurfaced once pipework has been installed through each of the intersections.

Garden beds will be upgraded, and pergolas and seating will be installed near the Post Office.

Line marking will be completed at the earliest convenience once the final asphalt surface has been laid, he added.

“Lane closures throughout the project are inevitable due to the nature of the works,” Mr Raeck said.

“However it is hoped that traffic will be able to travel down at least one side of the street during the construction of each section.

“A traffic management plan is being prepared to allow the works to start.

“The Council intends to communicate the plan to affected shop owners and community in the coming weeks once the final details have been confirmed.

“Council appreciates the drought has made it more difficult than normal on shop owners and will endeavour to minimise the impact where possible,” Mr Raeck said.

“It is hoped that the works will stimulate business, improving the shopping experience for everyone.

“While the overall project has taken longer than anticipated, it is hoped that the planning and final product will be worth the wait. The Council has $2 million allocated to carry out the works following the CBD Masterplan completed in 2014.”