Kings Highway re-opened after bushfire damage

Kings Highway reopened after bushfire damage

The Kings Highway, an essential route in and out of the South Coast of NSW, has been reopened to traffic following bushfire damage.

Crews have been working around the clock to repair damage on 43 kilometres of the highway, caused by the devastating bushfires.

Minister for Regional Transport and Roads Paul Toole said Transport for NSW crews had been working hard to re-open bushfire affected roads across the state and restore connections for impacted communities.

“The fires have caused substantial damage and loss to local communities including cutting off key transport routes like the Kings Highway which has been closed between Braidwood and North Batemans Bay,” Mr. Toole said.

“Re-opening these roads is critical to supporting recovery efforts and movement of supplies into the region – as well as supporting the return of visitors to the area.”

Up to 70 workers have been on the ground each day to re-open the Kings Highway since the recovery effort began on Monday 6 January.

Member for Bega Andrew Constance said the re-opening of the highway was welcome news to locals as recovery commenced in the region.

“Work to repair the 43 kilometre section of highway included the removal of around 1200 hazardous trees, and the repair of 43 damaged guardrails and 500 ‘cats eye’ reflector lights.”

Eurobodalla Mayor Liz Innes said the highway re-opening would be a major boost for the area.

“Bushfires have devastated our community and our landscape, and we’re hurting,” Cr. Innes said.

“Part of our recovery is the return of visitors and particularly our Canberra friends to help local businesses get back on their feet.”

Road users are urged to follow the directions of emergency services and traffic crews. Transport for NSW thanks motorists for their patience while repair work was carried out.

A number of fires are still burning on the South Coast and motorists should be prepared for conditions to change quickly.