Peabody reopens Ellensfield Road to light vehicles
A Bowen Basin mine operator has reopened a privately-owned road for light vehicles reducing travel times for communities like Glenden, Moranbah and surrounding areas.
Mackay
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A Bowen Basin mine operator has reopened a privately-owned road for light vehicles reducing travel times for communities like Glenden, Moranbah and surrounding areas.
The 19.25km stretch of private road, initially built for mine-only access for Peabody’s Centurion mine – formally North Goonyella – but was used frequently by local residents and travellers, is an important link between the Suttor Development Road and Red Hill Road and was closed in 2021 after a fire temporarily shut down the mine.
But as the coal mine cranks back into action with first development coal already produced in June, the Peabody has decided to reopen Ellensfield Road.
Peabody’s underground operations vice president Mike Carter the road was a vital link for local community members and travellers.
“Peabody understands how critical roads are to our regional communities, not just to conduct business, but to support local families to live the lives they deserve,” said Mr Carter.
“Our decision will open up opportunities for kids to participate in sport and cultural activities in larger towns, and to access important health and other services.”
The company has invested in road improvements including targeted surface upgrades, reinforced culverts and new signage reminding people to drive to the road conditions.
“It’s also very important to note that the road will not be open to heavy vehicle traffic, including trucks servicing neighbouring mining companies, unless strictly authorised by Peabody,” Mr Cartner said.
The damage caused by heavy vehicles use will raise the costs of maintenance to unsustainable levels.”
Isaac Regional Council mayor Kelly Vea Vea has welcomed the announcement as a “great early Christmas present for our local communities”.
“Council was pleased to work with the company to ensure reduced travel times between Glenden and Moranbah and to open a much-needed alternative access route for locals, tourists and business travellers,” Ms Vea Vea said.
“I want to reinforce Peabody’s request that everyone using the road must respect speed limits and drive carefully to ensure it remains open to community use.”
The road reopened on December 3 and remains closed to heavy vehicles. Certain heavy vehicles, such as school buses and agricultural vehicles can apply for authorised use. Light vehicles must have a maximum gross vehicle mass of 4.5 tonnes.
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